Splendid Fairywren
NameSplendid Fairywren
Common NameSplendid Fairywren
Scientific NameMalurus splendens
FamilyMaluridae
Wingspan (cm)15
Length (cm)12.5
Weight (g)10.5
Plumage DetailsThe breeding male, as pictured, displays brilliant iridescent cobalt blue on the crown, ear coverts, mantle, and rump. A prominent black band extends through the eye to the nape, and a black collar crosses the upper breast. The throat and lower breast are a lighter sky-blue, contrasting with the black, while the wings are dark blue-grey and the belly is whitish. The tail is deep blue.
Vocalization / CallA rapid, high-pitched reeling trill, often described as a 'churring' or 'reeling' song. They also emit various soft contact calls and sharp alarm calls.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsshrubland, woodland, mallee, heathland, gardens
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across much of mainland Australia, excluding the far north and east coast. It inhabits arid and semi-arid regions, as well as some coastal areas of Western Australia.
Identifying Featuresiridescent blue plumage (breeding male), black eye-band and collar (breeding male), long, cocked tail, small size, active foraging behavior
Description
The Splendid Fairywren is a small, active passerine bird endemic to Australia, known for the striking iridescent blue plumage of the breeding male. These social birds typically forage for insects in dense undergrowth, often seen with their long tails cocked upwards.
