Buff-rumped Thornbill

1. Pale buff to yellow rump patch stands out in flight

2. Pale, almost white eye in adults

3. Creamy-white underparts with yellowish wash on belly and flanks

Buff-rumped Thornbills are highly social, living in cooperative groups that defend territories together. They forage for insects and small invertebrates by gleaning from leaves, bark, and the ground. Breeding occurs mainly from late August through January, with females laying 2–4 eggs in a large, dome-shaped nest built low in a tree or shrub, often in a hollow or crevice. Both parents and often additional helpers (usually male offspring) participate in incubating the eggs and feeding the chicks. The incubation period is about 2 days.

This thornbill prefers open eucalypt forests and woodlands with sparse understorey, often avoiding dense scrub. It is commonly found from southern Queensland through New South Wales, Victoria, and into southeastern South Australia. Look for small, chatty flocks moving through low branches or feeding on the ground, especially in the early morning when they are most active. The species is a year-round resident within its range.