Variegated Fairy Wren

Description:

Four sub species of this fairy wren exist throughout varied habitats in Australia. Feeds on a variety of insects, grubs, larvae. This is a breeding male with iridescent blue and chestnut patches with slight hint of blue/mauve on back feathers, black chest and nape, white belly, the rest of wings and tail and back a grey grown tone. Black beak sharply pointed. Males, females and juveniles look similar light grey brown outside breeding times, it's only the male that develops the brilliant breeding colours.

Habitat:

Found in a variety of habitats throughout Australia where species are classified into sub species in different ranges. Prefers lots of vegetation and shrubs for cover when feeding out in the open, also found in gardens. This one in dry woodland environment in introduced lantana near waterhole.