Scrubtit

The scrubtit, Acanthornis magna, is a diminutive bird, measuring a mere 11 to 12 centimeters in length and tipping the scales at approximately 10 grams. Its plumage is a study in earth tones, with a white throat and underbelly, a brown back, crown, flanks, and tail, and a contrasting black on the wings. The face is adorned with shades of grey, and the bird's eye is notably pale. Completing this ensemble is a short, black, and slightly curved bill.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the scrubtit, look for its white throat and belly, which stand out against the brown of its back and crown. The black wings are distinctive, as is the grey facial coloring. The pale eye and the short, curved bill are also key features to distinguish it from similar species.

Habitat

The scrubtit is a denizen of the temperate rainforests, Nothofagus beech forests, and eucalypt woodlands, where it finds the dense cover it prefers.

Distribution

This species is endemic to Tasmania and King Island in Australia, where it flits through its preferred habitats.

Behaviour

Scrubtits are known to forage either alone, in pairs, or in small family groups, staying close to the ground within the sanctuary of dense vegetation. They are territorial and monogamous creatures, with a breeding season that spans from September to January. Despite their small size, they are capable of making quite loud contact calls and possess a song that is described as sweet and musical.

Song & Calls

The scrubtit's vocalizations include loud contact calls and a melodious song that can be described as sweet and musical, adding a touch of enchantment to the forests it inhabits.

Breeding

During the breeding season, scrubtits construct a woven globe-like nest with a side entrance, which is lined with feathers and fur for insulation and camouflage. Typically, the nest is placed 1 to 3 meters above the ground. Clutch sizes are generally three eggs, occasionally four, which are pearly white with fine reddish spots concentrated around the larger end. Both parents are involved in feeding the chicks, though no helpers have been reported to assist in this species.

Similar Species

The scrubtit bears a resemblance to the Sericornis scrubwrens, with which it was once classified. However, its unique characteristics help to differentiate it from these and other similar species.

Diet and Feeding

The diet of the scrubtit consists primarily of small invertebrates, with a particular fondness for insects and their eggs. It is also known to join mixed-species feeding flocks.

Conservation status

The scrubtit is not currently considered threatened on a broad scale, with a conservation status of Least Concern. However, the subspecies on King Island, A. m. greeniana, is critically endangered and ranks as the third Australian bird most likely to go extinct.