Eyrean Grasswren
Amytornis goyderi
EndemicStatus
UncommonRarity
Bird Gallery
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Species Description
The Eyrean Grasswren (*Amytornis goyderi*) is the smallest member of Australia’s grasswren family and is known for its elusive behaviour and adaptation to the arid sand dune country of Central Australia. This bird is rarely seen away from its preferred canegrass habitat, making sightings a highlight for birdwatchers exploring the Simpson and Strzelecki Deserts.
Fun Facts
The Eyrean Grasswren uses a unique “half running, half flying” movement, bounding up to two meters between clumps without fully taking flight.
1. Deep, finch-like bill unique among Australian grasswrens.
2. Pale cinnamon-brown with fine white streaks and a white underside.
3. Tail usually cocked upwards; females have brighter rufous flanks than males.
The Eyrean Grasswren is found almost exclusively on the crests and slopes of large sand dunes in the Simpson and Strzelecki Deserts. Its preferred habitat is areas where sandhill canegrass (*Zygochloa paradoxa*) grows in widely spaced clumps, often with bare sand between them. The best chance of seeing this bird is early in the morning, when it may be heard singing or briefly perching on canegrass stems. The species is most often observed in pairs or small family groups, rarely taking long flights but instead bounding between tussocks with short, low movements.
Physical Attributes
Height
15 cm
Size Relative to Other Birds20%
Top Locations
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Top birding locations will be available in a future update.