Red-backed Fairywren

The Red-backed Fairywren (Malurus melanocephalus) is a diminutive and sprightly bird, the smallest member of its genus. Males in breeding plumage are resplendent with a black head, upperparts, and tail, contrasted by a vivid red back and brown wings. Females and non-breeding males are more subdued, with brownish upperparts and paler underparts.

Identification Tips

To identify the male Red-backed Fairywren in breeding plumage, look for the striking combination of black and red. The tail is long and black, and the wings are brown. Females and non-breeding males are less conspicuous, with overall brown plumage and a yellowish spot under the eye. The bill is long, narrow, and pointed, aiding in their insectivorous pursuits.

Habitat

This species thrives in heathland and savannah, where low shrubs and tall grasses like blady grass (Imperata cylindrica) provide ample cover. They are particularly fond of wet, grassy areas in tropical or sub-tropical regions.

Distribution

Endemic to Australia, the Red-backed Fairywren is found along rivers and coastal areas from the Kimberley in the northwest to the Hunter Region in New South Wales. It is also present on several offshore islands.

Behaviour

Red-backed Fairywrens are diurnal and active at dawn. They are known for their hopping locomotion and undulating flight over short distances. They can be nomadic in response to bushfires but otherwise maintain and defend territories year-round. Socially monogamous pairs are often accompanied by helper birds, usually offspring from previous broods.

Song & Calls

The male's territorial song is a reel with an introductory note followed by repeated short segments, starting soft and ending high and shrill. For communication during foraging, a soft "ssst" is used, and a high-pitched "zit" serves as an alarm call.

Breeding

Breeding season coincides with the rainy season, from August to February. Males may display red petals to females as part of courtship. Nests are spherical, built from dried grasses, and concealed in grass tussocks or low shrubs. Females lay clutches of three to four white eggs with reddish-brown spots.

Similar Species

The Red-backed Fairywren can be distinguished from other fairywrens by the male's lack of blue in the tail and the female's absence of a blue tint in the plumage.

Diet and Feeding

Their diet consists mainly of insects, including beetles, bugs, grasshoppers, moths, wasps, cicadas, and spiders. They also consume insect larvae, eggs, and occasionally seeds and small fruit.

Conservation status

The IUCN Red List classifies the Red-backed Fairywren as Least Concern, indicating a stable population without significant threats at present.