Distribution Map
Northern Scrub-Robin
Drymodes superciliaris
EndemicStatus
UncommonRarity
Bird Gallery
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Species Description
The Northern Scrub Robin (*Drymodes superciliaris*) is a ground-dwelling songbird found only in the rainforests and monsoon forests of northern Cape York Peninsula, Queensland. Uniquely adapted to life on the rainforest floor, it is most often seen moving through leaf litter with its characteristic upright stance and flicking tail.
Fun Facts
The Northern Scrub Robin is not related to European robins, but is part of a family that evolved exclusively in Australasia.
1. Bold vertical black stripe through the eye and cheek set against a white throat.
2. Two prominent white wing bars on dark wings.
3. Long legs and habit of flicking a rufous tail while foraging on the ground.
Northern Scrub Robins are specialized ground foragers, turning over leaves and debris to find insects and small snails. They breed during the wet season from November to late January. Females build substantial bowl-shaped nests directly on the ground, usually at the base of a tree or log and lay two eggs. Their ground-nesting habit increases vulnerability to predators and habitat disturbance. The species is sedentary.
This robin is restricted to lowland rainforest and monsoon forest in the far northern Cape York Peninsula. It prefers open understory with deep leaf litter, often near forest edges or along walking tracks. The best times to observe them are dawn and dusk, when they are most active. Move quietly and scan the ground and low branches for their upright silhouette and listen for their thin, clear whistles.
Physical Attributes
Height
22 cm
Size Relative to Other Birds49%
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