Western Bristlebird

Overview

The western bristlebird is an endangered species of bird in the family Dasyornithidae. It is endemic to the coastal heaths of western Australia, specifically east and west of Albany.

Identification

• Adults measure 18–22 cm in length with grey-brown plumage.
• The body is rufous with dark brown under-surface feathers, creating a scalloped appearance.
• It features a red eye and an off-white face and neck.
• The tail is rufous with darker brown stripes and is shorter than that of other bristlebirds.

Habitat

This species inhabits temperate shrubland, particularly low, dense shrubland, and prefers coastal dunes and cliffs. It is restricted to the coastal heaths of western Australia, located east and west of Albany.

Did you know?

The western bristlebird can survive fires by relocating to the fire boundary and will subsequently occupy regrowth once it becomes suitable.