Unveiling the Allure of the Variegated Fairy-wren: Exploring its Shimmering Blue Headgear
The Malurus lamberti, commonly known as the variegated fairywren, is a small bird that measures around 14-15 cm (5.5-6 inches) and weighs between 6-11 grams (0.21-0.39 oz). They exhibit a unique characteristic of sexual dimorphism where males display an eye-catching iridescent blue and chestnut plumage that contrasts beautifully with black and grey-brown feathers. During breeding season, males show off their spectacular blue ear coverts, black throat and nape, royal blue upper back, chestnut shoulders, and blue-grey tail. Their wings are grey-brown, while their belly is white.