Western Bristlebird

Western Bristlebirds forage mainly on the ground for invertebrates such as worms, snails, insects, and larvae, as well as seeds. They are sedentary, with limited dispersal ability, and are reluctant flyerswhen disturbed, they prefer to run or make short, weak flights of only 1–2 meters. Breeding occurs from July to October, with females constructing large, domed nests from sedges, rushes, and sticks hidden in dense vegetation. Two eggs are laid per clutch, and only the female incubates them for 16–21 days. The nestling stage is also long, lasting 18–21 days. Pairs often remain together year-round, and territories can remain unchanged for up to 3 years.

Western Bristlebirds are restricted to dense coastal heathlands and shrublands in southwestern Western Australia, primarily at Two Peoples Bay Nature Reserve, Waychinicup, Mount Manypeaks, and Fitzgerald River National Park. They are ground-dwellers, rarely venturing more than a meter above the ground, and are most active and detectable during early mornings when their calls are frequent. Listening for their distinctive song is the best way to locate them, as they are more often heard than seen.