Rufous-crowned Emuwren
NameRufous-crowned Emuwren
Common NameRufous-crowned Emuwren
Scientific NameStipiturus ruficeps
FamilyMaluridae
Wingspan (cm)8.5
Length (cm)13
Weight (g)5
Plumage DetailsMales have a prominent rufous crown, a black mask extending from the bill to behind the eye, and a bright sky-blue throat and upper breast. Their upperparts are brown, and the belly is pale. The tail is very long and composed of six filamentous, emu-like feathers. Females are duller, lacking the blue throat and having a paler rufous crown.
Vocalization / CallTheir vocalizations include soft, high-pitched trills and tinkling calls, often described as a 'tseep-tseep-tseep' or a rapid, thin 'sisisisisis'.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsgrassland, desert
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in arid and semi-arid regions of inland Australia, primarily across Western Australia, the Northern Territory, and parts of South Australia, inhabiting spinifex grasslands and heathlands.
Identifying FeaturesRufous crown, Long filamentous tail, Blue throat (male), Small size, Habitat in spinifex and arid scrub
Description
The Rufous-crowned Emuwren is a tiny, long-tailed bird found in arid regions of Australia. Males are distinguished by their bright rufous crown and vibrant blue throat, while females are duller. They are typically seen foraging for insects low in dense spinifex and other arid scrub.
