Dusky Grasswren

The dusky grasswren (Amytornis purnelli) is a small passerine bird, a member of the Maluridae family, endemic to the arid interior of Australia. It is characterized by a predominantly brown plumage with fine pale streaking across the head, breast, and mantle. The back is a richer chestnut brown, while the belly and vent are paler, almost buff. Adult females can be distinguished by a bright rusty-brown spot on their fore-flanks. All individuals exhibit the cocked tail posture typical of malurids.

Identification Tips

In its core range, the dusky grasswren can be identified by its distinctive vocalisations. It is a mouse-like, terrestrial bird, often found in boulder-strewn rocky hillsides with spinifex grasses. Its cocked tail, overall brown colouration, and terrestrial habits are key identification features.

Habitat

Dusky grasswrens are found in rocky ranges and outcrops, preferring areas with thick, long-unburnt spinifex grasses. They are not known to inhabit sandplain areas adjacent to rocky regions.

Distribution

This species is endemic to inland areas of the Northern Territory, Western Australia, and South Australia. Its distribution is poorly known due to the remoteness of its habitat, but it is believed to be patchy across its range.

Behaviour

Dusky grasswrens are strongly terrestrial and can be elusive, making them challenging to observe. They are known to feed on a variety of small arthropods, seeds, and desert fruits.

Song & Calls

The vocal repertoire of the dusky grasswren is varied, including sharp, metallic tutting sounds, drawn-out contact calls, trills, high-pitched whistles, rapid twittering, and high-speed warbling. The complexity of their calls is often missed by human ears due to the speed of delivery.

Similar Species

The dusky grasswren is similar to other Amytornis species but is relatively unmistakable when seen well. It is unlikely to be confused with the Kalkadoon grasswren due to differences in habitat use and vocalisations. While fairywrens share some habitat and physical characteristics, they are distinguishable by their uniform grey colour and, in males, bright breeding plumage.

Diet and Feeding

Dusky grasswrens feed on small arthropods, invertebrates, seeds, and desert fruits. In captivity, they have been observed to eat a diet of meat mix, greens, vegetables, and live invertebrates such as cockroaches and mealworms.

Conservation status

The dusky grasswren is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, with a stable population assumed across a wide distribution.