Australian Rufous Fantail

Rhipidura rufifrons

Not EvaluatedUncommonInvertebratesShrublandCup nestTiny · 10 g

About the Australian Rufous Fantail

The Australian rufous fantail is a small passerine bird, most commonly known also as the black-breasted rufous-fantail or rufous-fronted fantail, which can be found in Australia.

Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

ID tip

Adults are medium-sized birds, generally ranging from 14.5 cm – 18.5 cm in length, averaging at around 15 cm; their wingspan is between 18 cm – 22.5 cm, averaging at around 21 cm. They weigh roughly 10 grams. The male and female of the species look identical. However, females are generally smaller than the males. The forehead is a richly reddish-brown colour across the eyes. The eyes have a white arc just below them. The top of the head, back of the neck and the upper back, transition from an olive to reddish-brown colour, which then blends into a blackish-brown, long, fan-shaped tail. Voice: These have been not well characterised in the Australian rufous fantail. Nevertheless, it has been observed to create several different types of sounds such as chips, buzzes, and scolds. Their "chip call" is often what first attracts an observer's attention. This call is high pitched, with two chip noises given in quick succession.

Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

Where it lives

Regular range

When to see it

Peak activity in January · a variable species across most of its range

Easily confused with

Side by side: Australian Rufous Fantail vs New Zealand Fantail · Australian Rufous Fantail vs White-spotted Fantail

Learn the Australian Rufous Fantail for real

BeakBrain drills you on photos and calls until you can greet this bird by name in the field. Free to play, on any device.

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