Opalton Grasswren

1. Rufous-brown upperparts with bold black-and-white streaks.

2. Prominent black moustachial stripe and white throat.

3. Long tail usually held upright, often seen running between spinifex clumps.

This species forages on the ground, feeding on insects, seeds, and small invertebrates. The nest is built in dense spinifex and is dome-shaped, providing shelter and protection. The female lays 2–3 pale, speckled eggs. After hatching, the young remain with their parents for about two weeks. The Opalton Grasswren is generally sedentary, remaining within its small range year-round, but may move locally during droughts. Major threats include habitat loss, introduced predators such as feral cats and foxes, and climate change, especially increased drought and fire frequency.

The Opalton Grasswren is restricted to specific spinifex grasslands in the Forsythe Range near Opalton, at Lark Quarry south of Winton, and in and around Goneaway National Park. These birds favour areas with large clumps of spinifex grass, often on sandy or gravelly soils with scattered eucalypts. Early mornings are the best time to observe them, as they are more active and vocal. Listening for their sharp, high-pitched calls can help locate them, as they are often heard before they are seen.