Birds
File:Rhipidura rufifrons -Royal National Park, NSW, Australia-8.jpg

Australian Rufous Fantail

Australian Rufous Fantail

100
17 hours ago
Not yet spotted on Fladder
Spotted
The Rufous Fantail is a widespread and much-loved bird, recognized by its distinctive rufous forehead, rump, and undertail coverts. It is an extremely active and acrobatic insectivore, constantly flitting, twisting, and fanning its tail as it hunts. Its playful demeanor makes it a popular species among birdwatchers.
Where to spot
Found across Australia, New Guinea, and various Pacific islands. It inhabits a wide range of habitats, including rainforests, wet sclerophyll forests, mangroves, and even suburban gardens with dense vegetation.
How to spot
Look for its rapid, darting flight and the constant fanning of its rufous tail. Its diagnostic rufous forehead and throat band are key identification marks. Listen for its high-pitched, often repetitive, 'chip' calls and melodious trills.
When to spot
Active during daylight hours, often seen year-round in its resident ranges. Some populations undertake seasonal migrations, offering seasonal observation opportunities.
File:Rhipidura rufifrons -Royal National Park, NSW, Australia-8.jpg
File:Rhipidura rufifrons -Saipan-8.jpg
File:Rufous Fantail. Rhipidura rufifrons (15618527757).jpg
File:Rufous Fantail (Rhipidura rufifrons) (30594839244).jpg
File:Rufous Fantail (Rhipidura rufifrons) (31271482762).jpg
File:Rhipidura rufifrons -Royal National Park, NSW, Australia-8.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Rhipidura rufifrons -Saipan-8.jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Rufous Fantail. Rhipidura rufifrons (15618527757).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Rufous Fantail (Rhipidura rufifrons) (30594839244).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
File:Rufous Fantail (Rhipidura rufifrons) (31271482762).jpg
Credits: Wikimedia Commons
The Rufous Fantail has one of the most expressive tails in the bird world, constantly fanning and wagging it as it moves, a behavior believed to flush out insects.
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3834 (Seen in the last 3 months)
Last spotted
17 hours ago

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