Distribution Map
Southern Emuwren
Stipiturus malachurus
EndemicStatus
UncommonRarity
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Species Description
The Southern Emu-wren is a tiny bird endemic to Australia, known for its exceptionally long, filamentous tail that can measure twice the length of its body. Weighing less than a teaspoon of sugar, this bird is a master of concealment, moving through dense vegetation with mouse-like agility. It inhabits coastal heathlands, tea-tree thickets, and swampy scrublands, preferring environments with dense cover.
Fun Facts
Despite their long tails, these birds weigh less than two teaspoons of sugar.
1. Long, filamentous tail resembling emu feathers.
2. Males display a sky-blue throat and chest; females lack blue colouration.
3. Prefers dense vegetation and exhibits mouse-like movements.
Southern Emu-wrens feed almost exclusively on small insects collected from foliage and the ground. They forage in pairs or small groups, maintaining contact with soft calls. Breeding occurs between August and January; nests are dome-shaped structures made from grass and spider webs placed low in dense vegetation. Females incubate 2-4 eggs while both parents feed the chicks. Young birds achieve independence within three months.
Southern Emu-wrens are found across southern Australia, including southeastern Queensland, coastal New South Wales, Victoria, Tasmania, South Australia, and southwestern Western Australia. They thrive in coastal heathlands, swampy scrublands, and buttongrass plains. The best time to spot them is during calm mornings when males may perch briefly to sing. Listen for their soft "pree-pree" calls near unburnt heathland edges.
Physical Attributes
Height
19 cm
Size Relative to Other Birds38%
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