Tribonyx mortierii
The Tasmanian Nativehen (Tribonyx mortierii) is a distinctive, medium-sized, flightless bird endemic to Tasmania, Australia. Averaging 43-51 cm in length and weighing 1-1.5 kg, it boasts a robust build perfectly adapted for its terrestrial lifestyle. Its plumage is a rich dark olive-brown on the back and wings, contrasting with a black head and neck, and a grey belly. A prominent, vibrant red bill tipped with yellow, bright red eyes, and a small white patch under the tail are key identificati...
Primarily inhabits open grassy areas, pastures, clearings, and agricultural land, especially near watercourses, marshes, and swamps, typically at low elevations.
Mainly herbivorous, feeding on grasses, seeds, and tender shoots; also supplements its diet with insects and earthworms obtained by grazing and probing.
Tasmanian Nativehens are largely diurnal, often seen foraging in the open during the day, though they can be active at dawn and dusk, roosting in dense vegetation at night. They are grazers, using their strong bills to pluck grasses and seeds, and occasionally dig for invertebrates. Highly territ...
The Tasmanian Nativehen is exclusively found on the island of Tasmania, Australia, where it is widespread across suitable lowland habitats. Its distribution covers the eastern, central, and northern parts of the island, extending from sea level up to several hundred meters in elevation. It thrive...
Least Concern
- The Tasmanian Nativehen is one of only two flightless bird species endemic to Tasmania, the other being the now extinct Tasmanian Emu. - It is an incredibly fast runner, capable of reaching speeds of up to 48 km/h (30 mph) when fleeing danger. - Despite being primarily terrestrial, it is an exc...