Yellow-throated Scrubwren

The Yellow-throated Scrubwren has been called the Blacknest-bird, for its habit of using black roots to build its domed nest.

Identification

The Yellow-throated Scrubwren is a small, ground-dwelling bird with a distinctive black face mask and forehead, which is bordered by a white and yellow eyebrow above and a bright yellow throat below. The crown and back are dark olive-brown, the underparts grade from the yellow throat to white on the belly, with the flanks washed olive. The wings are dark grey brown with the outer edges yellowish. The relatively long legs are cream to pinkish-grey and the bill is black. Females tend to have a brown face mask and forehead. Young birds are duller than adults in colour, with the underparts washed fawn.

Habitat

The Yellow-throated Scrubwren is found in rainforests and wet, timbered gullies with dense vegetation.

Distribution

The Yellow-throated Scrubwren is found along the east coast of Australia, in two discrete populations: one in far northern Queensland, the other from south-eastern Queensland to southern New South Wales.

Seasonality

Sedentary.

Feeding and diet

The Yellow-throated Scrubwren feeds exclusively on the ground, foraging for seeds, insects and other small invertebrates.

Communication

Melodious whistles, harsh chattering; also some mimicry.

Breeding behaviours

The Yellow-throated Scrubwren builds a long, bulky domed nest with a hooded side entrance, suspended in tangled vines or from a branch about 1 m to 10 m from the ground. It is made from roots, vine tendrils, leaf skeletons, moss and twigs, and is lined with feathers.

• Breeding Season: August to February.