Black Grasswren

The Black Grasswren, known to the Wunambal people as "dalal," is a rather elusive avian species belonging to the Maluridae family. It has a striking plumage, yet it remains a challenge to observe in its natural habitat.

Identification Tips

This species, Amytornis housei, can be identified by its predominantly dark plumage.

Habitat

The Black Grasswren favors a habitat of Mediterranean-type shrubby vegetation and open woodland. This environment is often adorned with large sandstone boulders and slabs.

Distribution

Endemic to Western Australia, the Black Grasswren is found in the Kimberley region, particularly within the Mitchell River National Park and the Charnley River–Artesian Range Wildlife Sanctuary.

Behaviour

Notoriously difficult to spot, the Black Grasswren tends to hide in the crevices of sandstone during the cooler months when most visitors are present. Its limited mobility and specific habitat preferences make it vulnerable to environmental changes such as increased bushfires and rainfall alterations.

Breeding

The nest of the Black Grasswren is an oval structure crafted from dried grass stems and leaves, typically nestled in tussocks of soft spinifex. The female is responsible for incubating the clutch, usually comprising two eggs that are white with sparse dark markings.

Conservation Status

The Black Grasswren is currently classified as Least Concern by the IUCN. However, its population may be impacted by habitat changes due to frequent bushfires and rainfall patterns, leading to potential local extinctions in areas such as Manning Creek.