Dusky Robin

The dusky robin (Melanodryas vittata) is a small, unassuming passerine bird, a native treasure of Tasmania. It is a member of the Australian robin family, Petroicidae, and is known by a plethora of local names, including Dozey, Sad, Sleepy, Stump, Tasmania/Wood Robin; Native Sparrow or Sad Bird. This bird is adorned with sombre dark brown plumage and is distinguished by a narrow line behind the eye and white bars on its wings. The name 'vittata' comes from Latin, meaning 'banded', a nod to these distinctive markings.

Identification Tips

The dusky robin measures 14-16.5 centimeters in length and weighs approximately 27 grams. It has a short, slender bill and a moderately long tail. It is larger than other Petroicidae in Tasmania. Males and females are similar in appearance, with no seasonal variation or sexual dimorphism, making field differentiation challenging.

Habitat

Dusky robins are endemic to Tasmania and favor open habitats. They are found from sea level to 1,200 meters above sea level, in dry sclerophyll forests, coastal heathlands, sedge lands, and Button Grass plains. They have a particular affinity for ecotones, the transitional areas between forests and clearings or recently burnt areas.

Distribution

This species is widespread across Tasmania, including the Tasmanian mainland and King Island.

Behaviour

Dusky robins may be observed in small groups or pairs, particularly during the breeding season. In winter, flocks of 6-12 birds, sometimes including many juveniles, may be seen, with the largest recorded group numbering 20 individuals.

Song & Calls

The dusky robin's song is a mournful, melancholic "Choo-wee, Choo-we-er", reflecting its colloquial names of sad bird or sad robin. The song is low, monotonic, and limited in its range of notes, more an expression of vitality than a musical performance. Their calls can be heard throughout the year, often among the first sounds at dawn.

Breeding

Breeding season spans from July to December, with the possibility of one or two broods. Dusky robins are cooperative breeders, with multiple adult robins assisting in feeding the incubating female.

Nesting

The nest is a large, untidy, cup-shaped structure, often situated in a tree fork or atop a stump, sometimes charred by fire. It is constructed from a variety of materials including rootlets, bark strips, twigs, and grass, bound together with spider webs and lined with soft materials.

Eggs and Clutch-Size

The clutch typically consists of two to four pale olive- to blue-green eggs, splotched with darker green and brown. The eggs are oval or elongated-oval, smooth, and glossy, measuring 22 mm by 17 mm.

Incubation and Parental Care

Only the female incubates the eggs, which lasts about 15 days, while being fed by the male or helpers. Post-hatching, both parents and helpers feed the nestlings. Fledglings are attended to for up to a month, and young remain with the parents for at least 6-7 weeks after fledging.

Conservation Status

The dusky robin is currently classified as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species.