Painting of a Superb fairy wren on a bright blue background

by Jan Matson

Title

Painting of a Superb fairy wren on a bright blue background

Artist

Jan Matson

Medium

Painting - Oil On Canvas

Description

Painting of a Superb fairy wren. A textured oil painting on a bright blue background.
The Superb Fairy-wren (Malurus cyaneus) is a small bird native to southeastern Australia. Known for its striking plumage, the breeding male has brilliant cobalt-blue feathers on its crown, throat, and tail, contrasting with black markings. Outside the breeding season, males moult into an eclipse plumage, resembling the brown and grey feathers of females and juveniles. Despite their small size, these birds are easily recognised by their energetic hopping and upright tail flicking as they forage across gardens, woodlands, and grasslands​.

Superb Fairy-wrens are social birds that live in small family groups, typically led by a dominant breeding pair. They exhibit cooperative breeding behaviour, with other group members helping to raise the chicks. These birds primarily feed on insects and small invertebrates, making them excellent pest controllers in urban gardens. Males often engage in courtship displays, including “courtesy hopping” and presenting petals—usually blue flowers—as gifts to females. Their lively presence, adaptability, and vibrant colours make them one of Australia’s most beloved garden birds​.

Uploaded

October 15th, 2024

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