Splendid Fairywren
NameSplendid Fairywren
Common NameSplendid Fairywren
Scientific NameMalurus splendens
FamilyMaluridae
Wingspan (cm)15
Length (cm)13
Weight (g)10
Plumage DetailsBreeding males are brilliant iridescent blue on the head, mantle, and underparts, with a black eye-stripe and a distinct black band across the breast. The crown and ear coverts are a lighter sky-blue. Females and non-breeding males are mostly brownish-grey with a blue tail.
Vocalization / CallTheir vocalizations include a rapid, high-pitched trilling song, often described as a 'reel' or 'chatter', and various contact calls.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsshrubland, woodland, mallee, mulga, garden, park
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeWidespread across much of arid and semi-arid Australia, including Western Australia, South Australia, Northern Territory, Queensland, New South Wales, and Victoria, but absent from the far north and east coast.
Identifying FeaturesSmall size, Long, often cocked blue tail, Male's brilliant iridescent blue plumage (breeding), Black eye-stripe on male, Black breast band on male
Description
The Splendid Fairywren is a small, active passerine bird native to Australia, known for the male's striking iridescent blue breeding plumage. They are typically found foraging for insects in dense undergrowth, often in small social groups.
