LOVELY FAIRY-WREN
Photo: C & D Frith
Australia's Cape York Peninsula
ENDEMIC Tropical North QLD
LOVELY FAIRY-WREN: Malurus amabilis 15 cm It is most abundant in lowland and foothill areas, especially in shrubbery at the edge of rainforests, or in swamp forests. Lovely Fairy-wrens are co-operative breeders. Genetic studies of superb and splendid fairy-wrens have revealed the shocking fact that a high proportion of the young are not dad's. It appears that from time to time, mum entertains the neighbouring males, mating with up to six different ones in addition to her regular partner. Similarly the male fairy-wren, decked in his brightest costume, and a flower clenched in his beak, also goes philandering - siring chicks with up to 10 other females. (Source: Department of Environment) Near Chambers Wildlife Rainforest Lodge it is seen most readily along the escarpment section of the Gillies Highway.
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