The Chestnut-breasted Whiteface Aphelocephala pectoralis is South Australia's only true endemic. It is confined to north-central and north-east SA and can, for example, be found on the arid plains along the lower Strzelecki track east of Lyndhurst, or near Coober Pedy. They feed inconspicuously on the ground and have a soft trilling call. Unmistakable by its broad, rusty breastband, it hops on the ground in small flocks and mixes with other Whiteface species .....more.

The Short-tailed Grasswren Amytornis merrotsyi is a recent split from the Striated Grasswren. Confined to the Flinders and Gawler Ranges, the birds are shy and secretive and only found in spinifex-covered hills. The birds are slightly smaller and greyer than Striated Grasswren, with a slightly shorter tail. Their main call is a very high pitched 'seep', inaudible to some observers.....more.

Until recently, the Black-eared Miner Manorina melanotis was another SA endemic - after it had become extinct in Victoria. However, a successful recovery program means the species is yet again present in the Victorian Mallee-Sunset National Park. The best place to find them however remains Birds Australia Gluepot Reserve, 50 km N of Waikerie, SA. To significantly increase your chances of finding this and other critical species, click here for information on birding trips to Gluepot.

Read on for a detailed account of this interesting species!