Red-backed Fairywren
NameRed-backed Fairywren
Common NameRed-backed Fairywren
Scientific NameMalurus melanocephalus
FamilyMaluridae
Wingspan (cm)13
Length (cm)12
Weight (g)9
Plumage DetailsBreeding males have a glossy black head, throat, upperparts, and tail, with a brilliant scarlet-red back and rump. Non-breeding males resemble females, which are predominantly plain brown on the upperparts, whitish on the underparts, and have a rufous-brown tail. Juveniles are similar to females.
Vocalization / CallTheir vocalizations include a high-pitched, rapid trilling song, often described as a 'reeling' sound. They also emit sharp 'chit' alarm calls.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, forest, wetland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound across northern and eastern Australia, from the Kimberley region of Western Australia, across the Top End and Queensland, and south to northeastern New South Wales.
Identifying FeaturesMale's striking black and red plumage (breeding), Female's plain brown plumage with rufous-brown tail, Long, often cocked tail, Small size, Active, hopping movements in dense vegetation
Description
The Red-backed Fairywren is a small, active insectivorous bird native to northern and eastern Australia. Males in breeding plumage are strikingly colored, while females and non-breeding males are more cryptically brown. They are typically found in dense grassy or shrubby vegetation.
