Grasswrens (Amytornis) are a genus of birds in the Australasian wren family, Maluridae.

Taxonomy and systematics

Amytornis is the only genus classified within the subfamily Amytornithinae, and form a separate clade to the related fairy-wrens and emu-wrens within the family Maluridae. The genus contains 14 species, many of which are poorly known due to their secretive nature and remote and inaccessible habitat.

Extant species

The genus contains the following 14 species:

Description

Grasswrens are the largest members of the Australasian wren family, ranging from 15 g for the Eyrean grasswren to the 35 g white-throated grasswren. They generally have long tails and legs and short wings and are adapted for life foraging on the ground. The bill is typically shorter and narrower than the fairy-wrens and emu-wrens, which reflects the larger part that seeds play in their diet. The plumage of the grasswrens is cryptic, usually red, buff and brown patterned with white and black.

Distribution and habitat

Grasswrens are endemic to Australia. They inhabit remote arid or semi-arid regions of the continent in the interior and north. Species typically occupy small ranges as well. Most species of grasswrens inhabit habitat dominated by spinifex. They are often found in hilly areas dominated by rocks, which provides them with prey as well as shelter, particularly thermal shelter from extremes of heat or cold.