From Opus

Malurus splendens

Photo by The Magpie
Photo taken: Western Australia

[edit] Identification

The male in breeding plumage is predominantly bright blue and black. Non-breeding males, females and juveniles are predominantly grey-brown.

[edit] Distribution

Much of inland and south-western Australia, but nowhere near the north coast or east of the great divide.

[edit] Taxonomy

Four subspecies are commonly recognized, splendens, musgravi, melanotus, and emmottorum. Subspecies callainus is recognized by some authorities. Some authorities have in the past given species status to callainus (Turquoise Fairywren) and melanotus (Black-backed Fairywren).

[edit] Habitat

Arid and semi-arid regions.

[edit] Behaviour

Partly nomadic.

The diet includes seeds and insects.

[edit] External Links

• View more images of this species on the ABID