Superb Fairywren
NameSuperb Fairywren
Common NameSuperb Fairywren
Scientific NameMalurus cyaneus
FamilyMaluridae
Wingspan (cm)15
Length (cm)13.5
Weight (g)10.5
Plumage DetailsFemales and non-breeding males are dull brown above with a grey-brown head, whitish underparts, and a dull blue tail. Breeding males are spectacular with an iridescent blue crown, ear-coverts, mantle, and tail, contrasting with a black throat, eye-stripe, and brown wings.
Vocalization / CallTheir vocalizations include a rapid, high-pitched reeling song, often described as a 'trill' or 'reel'. They also emit various contact calls and alarm calls.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsshrubland, woodland, gardens, parks, forest edges
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeEndemic to southeastern Australia, including Tasmania, extending from southeastern Queensland through New South Wales, Victoria, and southeastern South Australia.
Identifying Featureslong, upright blue tail, small size, sexually dimorphic plumage (breeding males bright blue), females and non-breeding males brown/grey with dull blue tail, active foraging in dense undergrowth
Description
The Superb Fairywren is a small, active passerine bird endemic to southeastern Australia. Known for its striking sexual dimorphism, breeding males display brilliant iridescent blue plumage, while females and non-breeding males are predominantly brown and grey. They typically forage in small groups within dense undergrowth.
