Nature Notes - Red-capped Robin

Features

The Red-capped Robin (Petroica goodenovii) is the smallest of the red Robins. It has an intense crimson cap as well as crimson breast.

Adaptations

Red-capped Robins rarely sit still for long. They dart to the ground flying up to a new vantage point only to duck to the ground again and back up. While perched they often give a quick flick of their tail and wings.

Habitat

Red-capped Robins live in dry open desert woodlands, mallee, mulga country, scrublands and farmland.

Range

They are found right across the central regions of Australia from the west coast to some of the east and southern coastal regions. They avoid the heaviest rainfall areas.

Wild Status

Moderately common.

Diet

Red-capped Robins fossick actively on the ground; hopping and shuffling about the litter, half spreading the wing to flush out insects.

Predators

Feral cats, butcherbirds, birds of prey, pythons. Robins will protect their nests and chicks by trying to distract intruders, they will even feign a broken wing.

Home

The nest is a beautiful compact little cup (the smallest of all the robin nests). It consists of fine strips of grass and bark, neatly bound with spiderweb. To camouflage the nest, green and silver pieces of lichen and bark are attached by cobwebs to the outside.

Life Span

Red-capped Robins live for at least 6 years.

Size

11-12 cm

Reproduction

Red-capped Robins usually breed after rain in desert Australia. They live in pairs or small family parties of 3 to 5 birds after breeding.

Extra Fun Facts

The Red-capped Robin is one of the most brightly coloured birds in the Australian desert.