Rufous Treecreeper

Natural Shelter

Rufous Treecreepers are adapted to life amongst the gum trees. It is critically important to keep and maintain mature trees in your garden as they provide suitable habitat for Rufous Treecreepers. Rufous Treecreepers are attracted to Wandoo, Salmon Gum, Jarrah, Marri and other tall eucalypt species.

Novel Shelter

Below is a template and important considerations regarding nest boxes for Rufous Treecreepers.

• Install the box on a tall tree close to the main trunk or a thick horizontal limb five meters or higher.
• Position nest boxes away from direct afternoon sun.
• Nest boxes are a long-term commitment and need maintenance and repair over time.
• Never use metal wire inside a box. A wooden ladder or notches in the timber is much more suitable and won’t damage claws or talons.
• Chipboard boxes degrade quickly and require replacement after a year of use.
• Hardier untreated timber (Jarrah) is less prone to attack by fungi, bacteria, and microorganisms.
• Do not use treated timber as this can emit fumes toxic to wildlife and their young.
• Maintenance is critical to ensure any resident wildlife and their offspring remain safe.

Providing natural sources of food

Rufous Treecreepers forage on the trunks and branches of eucalypts trees. They probe crevices and pull off bark in search of their favourite prey, including beetle larvae, spiders, and small invertebrates.

Rufous Treecreepers forage on the ground for invertebrates with ants a particular focus. They forage amongst fallen logs and leaf litter located near large trees.

Providing sources of water

Rufous Treecreepers will visit bird baths regularly. A shallow container hanging from a branch or in the fork of a tree can provide a safe place away from cats.