Rufous Fieldwren

1. Frequently seen with its tail cocked upward, even while moving on the ground.

2. Unstreaked rufous uppertail-coverts contrast with the streaked back, providing a useful field mark.

3. The combination of a white eyebrow, rufous-tinged ear-coverts, and streaked breast creates a facial pattern that sets it apart from similar ground-dwelling birds

Rufous Fieldwrens feed mainly on insects, spiders, and occasionally snails and seeds, foraging on the ground or in low vegetation. They are usually seen alone or in pairs, sometimes in small family groups. Breeding can occur at various times of the year, often influenced by rainfall, with nests built as domes or globes on or near the ground, typically under shrubs. Nests are constructed from fine grass and bark strips, lined with soft materials. Clutch size is usually 2–4 eggs. Both parents care for the young. Habitat loss from overgrazing, land clearing, and altered fire regimes threatens some populations, though the species is not currently considered at risk overall.

Rufous Fieldwrens inhabit low shrublands across southern and western Australia, including saltbush and bluebush plains, samphire flats, and low heathlands. They are found from coastal areas to the interior, such as the Nullarbor Plain and parts of Western Australia’s Pilbara region. These birds spend most of their time on the ground, moving between shrubs and often remaining hidden. The best time to observe them is during spring mornings, when males sing from exposed perches. During hot weather, they are most active in the early morning and late afternoon