Gray Grasswren
Amytornis barbatus
EndemicStatus
UncommonRarity
Species Description
The Grey Grasswren is a rarely seen Australian songbird, found only in the arid floodplains of inland eastern Australia. It is highly specialized for life in dense lignum and cane grass thickets. This elusive bird is mostly active at dawn and dusk and is best known for its long, upright tail and subtle, streaked colouring that blends into its environment.
Fun Facts
Grey Grasswrens can survive both extreme floods and long droughts, making them one of Australia’s most adaptable arid-zone birds.
1. Long, upright tail much longer in proportion than most similar birds.
2. Pale, streaked body with a subtle ginger-brown wash.
3. White eyebrow and black facial lines forming a "Y" or "V" pattern.
Grey Grasswrens are found in a narrow range across the floodplains of the Bulloo River, Cooper Creek, and Diamantina River systems in Queensland, New South Wales, and South Australia. They are most often encountered in dense stands of lignum or cane grass, especially after rain or flooding when these habitats are lush. In dry periods, they retreat to the densest available thickets. The best time to look is early morning, listening for their high-pitched, metallic calls, which sound like "pit-choo" or "sit-sit-sit".
Physical Attributes
Height
20 cm
Size Relative to Other Birds40%
Top Locations
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