Flame Robin

The flame robin (Petroica phoenicea) is a small passerine bird, the largest of the red robins, measuring 12–14 cm in length. It exhibits sexual dimorphism, with the male sporting a brilliant orange-red chest and throat, and a white patch on the forehead above the bill. The upper parts are iron-grey with white bars, and the tail is black with white tips. Females are more subdued in color, with a muted grey-brown plumage.

Identification Tips

Males are easily identified by their bright orange-red plumage on the throat, breast, and abdomen. Females are paler brown overall with lighter buff underneath and subtle off-white wing marks. Both sexes have dark brown eyes and a small thin black bill.

Habitat

During breeding season, flame robins prefer wet eucalypt forests in hilly or mountainous areas, with a fondness for clearings and sparse understory. In winter, they migrate to more open areas such as grasslands and open woodlands.

Distribution

The flame robin is native to southeastern Australia, including Tasmania. It is a moderately common resident, with migratory movements from alpine regions to lowlands in winter.

Behaviour

This species is territorial, using song and plumage displays to defend its territory. It is often seen perched upright, flicking its wings alternately, and exhibits a fast, undulating flight.

Song & Calls

The flame robin's song is considered the most musical of its genus, consisting of a series of descending notes. Both males and females sing, often from a high perch. Their calls include louder songs that can be heard from a distance and softer contact calls near the nest.

Breeding

Breeding season spans from August to January, with the flame robin typically raising one or two broods. The nest is a neat, deep cup made of grass, moss, and bark, often located in a tree fork or crevice. Clutches usually consist of three to four dull white eggs.

Similar Species

The flame robin can be confused with the scarlet robin and the red-capped robin, but it can be distinguished by its orange-red breast extending to the base of the bill and its slightly slimmer build.

Diet and Feeding

Flame robins are perch and pounce hunters, mainly consuming insects. They often return to a favorite low perch to scan for prey on the leaf-litter.

Conservation Status

The flame robin is classified by BirdLife International as least concern, although there is evidence of population decline over the past 25 years, particularly at the edges of its non-breeding range.