Carpentarian Grasswren

1. Rusty-brown back with white and black streaks, and a clear black moustache stripe.

2. White throat and breast, with males showing paler flanks than females.

3. Long tail usually held upright, especially when moving through spinifex.

These birds are mostly terrestrial, feeding on insects, spiders, and seeds found among rocks and spinifex. They are shy and secretive, often sheltering in rock crevices or dense grass. Carpentarian Grasswrens build domed nests hidden within spinifex clumps, typically 2–6 cm above ground. Breeding can occur at any time of year if conditions allow, with females incubating 2–3 eggs per clutch. Young birds stay with their family group until the next breeding season. The main threat to their survival is frequent, intense wildfires that destroy their spinifex habitat and reduce food availability

Carpentarian Grasswrens inhabit rocky sandstone outcrops with mature spinifex grass in the southern Gulf of Carpentaria region. Key sites include areas near Mount Isa and Boodjamulla National Park in Queensland, and Limmen National Park and Caranbirini Conservation Reserve in the Northern Territory. They are most active in the early morning and late afternoon, foraging on the ground in pairs or small family groups. Listening for their sharp calls or soft songs can help in locating them`.`