Cactus Wren
From WikiBird
Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus
Contents |
Size
Length: 18-23cm (7-9in), Wingspan: ??cm (??in)
Field Marks
Long, slightly decurved bill, bold white supercilium contrasting with dark crown and eyeline. White throat, upper breast densely spotted with black, underparts white becoming buffy toward tail and spotted. Upperparts grayish-brown with black and white streaks and spots. Long tail barred with black and white. Dark legs. Sexes similar.
Similar species
Easily seen. Thrashers are somewhat similar but are larger and lack the white supercilium and dense spotting on the breast.
Sounds
It has the loud voice characteristic of wrens, but its song is harsh and unmusical.
Feeding & Behavior
The Cactus Wren forms permanent pair bonds, and the pairs defend a territory where they live all through the year. It mainly eats insects, though it will occasionally take seeds or fruits. It rarely drinks water, getting its moisture from its food.
Habitat & Nesting
Inhabits arid regions, and is often found around yucca, mesquite or saguaro; it nests in cactus plants, sometimes in a hole in a saguaro, sometimes where its nest will be protected by the prickly leaves of a cholla or yucca.
Range
Native to the south-western United States southwards to central Mexico.
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