Splendid Fairywren
NameSplendid Fairywren
Common NameSplendid Fairywren
Scientific NameMalurus splendens
FamilyMaluridae
Wingspan (cm)15
Length (cm)12.5
Weight (g)10.5
Plumage DetailsBreeding males display stunning iridescent cobalt blue and lighter blue plumage across most of their body, with a contrasting black band through the eye and a black bill. The belly is typically a paler blue-grey. Females and non-breeding males are generally duller, predominantly grey-brown with a blue tail.
Vocalization / CallA rapid, high-pitched reeling song, often described as a series of trills and chattering notes, used for communication and territorial defense.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsscrubland, mallee, woodland, heathland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across arid and semi-arid regions of mainland Australia, excluding the far north and southeast.
Identifying FeaturesBrilliant iridescent blue plumage (breeding males), Long, upright blue tail, Small size and active hopping movements, Black eye-band and bill (breeding males)
Description
The Splendid Fairywren is a small, active passerine bird native to Australia, renowned for the male's brilliant iridescent blue breeding plumage. These birds typically forage for insects in dense undergrowth, often moving in small social groups.
