Slaty-backed Thornbill
NameSlaty-backed Thornbill
Common NameSlaty-backed Thornbill
Scientific NameAcanthiza robustirostris
FamilyAcanthizidae
Wingspan (cm)16
Length (cm)11
Weight (g)7
Plumage DetailsThe Slaty-backed Thornbill has uniform slaty-grey plumage on its head, back, and wings, contrasting with pale buffy-white underparts that may show a slight rufous wash on the flanks and undertail coverts. It features a dark lore and eye-stripe, and a dark, relatively robust bill.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a high-pitched, thin, and reedy 'tseep' or 'tsit' call, often delivered in a rapid, repetitive series.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsforest, desert
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to arid and semi-arid interior Australia, primarily distributed across Western Australia, South Australia, and the Northern Territory, inhabiting mulga and acacia woodlands.
Identifying FeaturesSlaty-grey upperparts, Pale buffy-white underparts, Dark bill and eye-stripe, Relatively robust bill, Small size
Description
The Slaty-backed Thornbill is a small, active passerine bird found in arid and semi-arid regions of Australia. It is characterized by its slaty-grey upperparts and pale buffy-white underparts, often seen foraging for insects in dense scrub. This species has a relatively robust bill for a thornbill, aiding its insectivorous diet.
