Sandhill Grasswren

1. Black moustachial stripe contrasting with a white throat.

2. Rufous-brown upperparts with fine black-and-white streaking.

3. Long tail typically held upright while running between spinifex clumps.

Sandhill Grasswrens forage mainly on the ground, feeding on insects and seeds between spinifex tussocks. They are considered sedentary, maintaining territories in areas with mature spinifex cover. Nests are usually built within large spinifex clumps, providing protection from predators and harsh desert conditions. Their populations are closely tied to fire regimes, as they depend on older spinifex for shelter and breeding, typically favouring areas where the vegetation is 15–4 years post-fire.

Sandhill Grasswrens inhabit sandy deserts in central and eastern Western Australia and central Australia. They are most often found in sand dune systems and sandy plains dominated by mature spinifex (Triodia) grasses, often with scattered shrubs such as acacias or mallee eucalypts. The best time to spot them is early in the morning, when they may briefly perch atop spinifex clumps before darting for cover. Locating this species requires patience and careful searching in suitable habitat, as they are quick to hide at any sign of disturbance.