Thick-billed Grasswren

SPECIES Thick-billed Grasswren
TAXONOMY Amytornis textilis modestus
STATUS Least concern (Redlist.org); Vulnerable (ala.org.au)

Thick-billed Grasswrens have three subspecies that occur in saltbush scrubland amid southern arid Australia. They can be found amongst dense grasses found near low lying areas such as watercourses and drainage lines. Spending most of their time on the ground, they are occasionally seen running, hopping, or even low level flying if disturbed and will take refuge in any available cover.  

Behaviour
Shy and elusive, they are well adapted at remaining undetected. Established pairs are strictly territorial and remain within their 20 to 40 hectares year round.

Feeding
They forage for seeds, berries, and insects on the ground in and around the dense grasses where they live. They have a repetitive musical song that can be heard distinctly. When perched and singing, they flick their tail back and forth.

Appearance
As the name suggests, Thick-billed Grasswrens are thick set and have a heavy bill. Like most wrens, their wings are short and the tail is long and erect. Considered small at 16 centimetres, they have a finely white streaked head and body, with overall greyish brown plumage. Their thick bill allows successful forage of tougher seeds and grasses.

Reproduction
Breeding occurs between July and September. Nests are deep and loosely made, shaped as a cup, half dome, or dome. They are located near the ground within a clump of dense grass or flood debris. The nests are usually constructed of grass, twigs, or bark strips.

From one to three eggs will have an incubation period of two weeks. They will survive in suitable environments for up to four years.

Threats
The Thick-billed Grasswren is experiencing a highly fragmented population due to the destruction of its natural habitat. Arid and semi-arid zones are highly susceptible to drought conditions which are compounded by overgrazing and trampling of native grasses by both wild and domestic livestock. Feral rabbits are also identified as destroying habitat. Feral foxes see the grasswren as a food source. 

Updated 5 May 2021