Acanthiza robustirostris
The Slaty-backed Thornbill (*Acanthiza robustirostris*) is a demure yet captivating songbird endemic to the arid and semi-arid interior of Australia. Measuring approximately 9.5 to 11 cm in length and weighing a mere 6-8 grams, this species is characterized by its dusky grey-brown upperparts, a distinctive slaty-grey head, and a darker streak extending through the eye. Its underparts are whitish, often adorned with faint dusky streaking on the flanks, and its tail features a dark subterminal ...
This species primarily inhabits arid and semi-arid mallee, acacia, and mulga woodlands, as well as saltbush and bluebush plains, typically found in dense, low shrubby vegetation. It is generally found at low to moderate elevations across its range.
The Slaty-backed Thornbill feeds predominantly on small insects, including beetles, ants, caterpillars, and spiders, which it gleans from the foliage and bark of shrubs and trees. Occasionally, small seeds may supplement its insectivorous diet.
The Slaty-backed Thornbill is an active and restless species, constantly foraging in the mid-story and lower canopy of shrubs. It employs a meticulous gleaning strategy, meticulously searching foliage, twigs, and bark for insects. These thornbills are typically observed in pairs or small family g...
The Slaty-backed Thornbill is endemic to the arid and semi-arid interior of Australia, where it is a resident, non-migratory species. Its extensive distribution spans across vast areas of Western Australia, particularly the central and southern parts, extending eastward into the southwestern Nort...
Least Concern
- The Slaty-backed Thornbill's scientific name, *robustirostris*, meaning "stout-billed," is somewhat misleading, as its bill is fairly typical of other thornbills, though perhaps slightly more robust than some in its genus. - Its striking pale yellowish-white iris is one of its most distinctive ...