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Kalkadoon grasswren facts for kids

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Kalkadoon grasswren
Amytornis ballarae 77542098 (cropped).jpg
A. ballarae in Mount Isa, Queensland, Australia
Conservation status
Scientific classification
Genus:
Amytornis
Species:
ballarae

The Kalkadoon grasswren (Amytornis ballarae), also known as the Ballara grasswren, is a small bird found only in Australia. It belongs to the Maluridae family, which includes fairy-wrens. This special bird lives in rocky, spinifex-covered hills.

About the Kalkadoon Grasswren

Scientists first described the Kalkadoon grasswren in 1969. It was once thought to be a type of dusky grasswren. However, experts now agree it is its own unique species.

The name 'Kalkadoon' comes from the Kalkadoon people. They are an Aboriginal group who live in the area where this bird is found. The scientific name ballarae refers to Ballara. This is an old mining town in north-western Queensland, Australia.

What Does it Look Like?

The Kalkadoon grasswren looks a lot like the dusky grasswren. However, its markings are usually brighter and stand out more. For example, the feathers on its wings are grayish. They have a small reddish-brown patch near the base of the outer wing feathers. In contrast, the dusky grasswren's wings are a dull, uniform reddish-brown color.

Where Does it Live?

The Kalkadoon grasswren lives in a very specific area. It is found only in the Selwyn Range system. This is located in north-west Queensland, Australia. It prefers hills covered with a spiky grass called spinifex.

See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Maluro kalkadoon para niños

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