Gray Fantail
Rhipidura albiscapa
NativeStatus
CommonRarity
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Species Description
The Grey Fantail is a small Australian songbird, easily recognised by its constantly fanned tail and agile, acrobatic flight. These lively birds are found across Australia in a wide range of wooded habitats. Their energetic movements and habit of following people through the bush make them a familiar and entertaining sight for birdwatchers and casual observers alike`.`
Fun Facts
The Grey Fantail’s tail makes up about half its total body length, helping it maneuver quickly to catch insects.
1. Constantly fanned and flicked tail with white outer edges, visible both when perched and in flight.
2. White throat and eyebrow contrasting with darker upperparts.
3. Active, acrobatic flight as they pursue insects, often changing direction rapidly.
Grey Fantails are widespread throughout Australia and can also be found in the Solomon Islands, Vanuatu, and New Caledonia. They inhabit a variety of environments, including forests, woodlands, mangroves, heaths, and suburban gardens. They are especially common along forest edges and in areas with scattered trees. In southern Australia, some populations migrate north during winter, while others remain in their territories year-round
Physical Attributes
Height
15 cm
Size Relative to Other Birds20%
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