Cinclosoma alisteri
The Nullarbor Quail-thrush (*Cinclosoma alisteri*) is a strikingly cryptic passerine endemic to the vast, arid Nullarbor Plain of southern Australia. Measuring approximately 20-22 cm in length with a robust, ground-dwelling build, its plumage offers superb camouflage against the red earth and scrub. Adults are predominantly sandy-brown to rufous on the back, blending seamlessly with the arid landscape, while the underparts are pale buff. A key distinguishing feature for identification is the ...
The Nullarbor Quail-thrush primarily inhabits semi-arid to arid shrublands and open woodlands, specifically favoring areas with low, dense saltbush (Atriplex spp.) and bluebush (Maireana spp.) on limestone plains. It is typically found at elevations ranging from sea level to approximately 300 met...
This species primarily consumes a diet of insects and other small invertebrates, including ants, beetles, spiders, and grasshoppers. They also supplement their diet with seeds, especially during drier periods, foraged directly from the ground.
Primarily a diurnal species, the Nullarbor Quail-thrush is most active during the cooler parts of the day, particularly early morning and late afternoon, often roosting in dense shrubs or shallow scrapes under vegetation during midday heat. Its foraging strategy involves meticulously sifting thro...
The Nullarbor Quail-thrush is strictly endemic to the Nullarbor Plain, a vast, flat, and arid limestone karst region straddling the border of Western Australia and South Australia. Its breeding range is confined to this specific bioregion, extending roughly from the fringes of the Great Victoria ...
Near Threatened
- The Nullarbor Quail-thrush's scientific name, *alisteri*, honors Alister Glennie, a pioneering naturalist who conducted extensive surveys of the Nullarbor's avian fauna in the early 20th century. - Its exquisite camouflage makes it incredibly difficult to spot, often leading birders to rely sol...