One of the key bird species that can be often found along the track between Shipwreck Creek to Seal Creek in Mallacoota, is the Southern Emu-wren. I always get a kick out of finding this tiny, long tailed Heathland bird. They can be difficult to find and photograph during the day but good hearing, a keen eye and an early morning walk through the heath can produce the occasional image of this secretive bird. Being small winged it can’t escape danger through flight and the long tail inhibits anything other than small jump flights. It must hide in the scrub throughout the day and work its area for food. In the morning and late evening it will often climb a dead branch and make its territorial calls to the neighbouring tribes.
Southern Emu-wrens, Shipwreck Creek, Mallacoota, Victoria 21 Dec 2016
Southern Emu-wren
Displaying the delicate 5 tail feathers of a male Southern Emu-wren
The Gap Year and Beyond 
I love these little fellas. Saw heaps of them in September last year on the Shipwreck Creek walk.
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Thanks for the comments Reuben, I think it is all about timing, I have seen heaps as well (dozens) on the walk to Seal Creek but on the way back 90 mins later nothing…I have only been to the area in Dec so maybe they are much more active in Sept during the day.
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Yeah, I think morning is definitely a better time generally. There are lots of emu wrens at the Marlo Airport too.
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