Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus
adult
With its long tail and downcurved bill, this large desert wren looks more like a tiny thrasher than a true wren. The sexes are similar. Adults have brown or gray-brown upperparts with streaks on the back and dark barring on the wings and tail; the latter has white feather tips. The pale underparts are heavily spotted on the throat and breast; the belly and flanks are pale with dark spots in coastal populations but flushed orange-buff in inland birds. The head has a brown crown, striking white supercilium, and streaked gray-brown cheeks. Juveniles are similar to adults but less boldly marked.
The Cactus Wren is a locally common year-round resident of southwestern deserts. As its name suggests, it is often associated with cacti and will use them as a lookout perch or forage at their base for food.
adult
adult
FACT FILE
LENGTH 8.5 in (21.5 cm)
FOOD Invertebrates
HABITAT Desert habitats
STATUS Locally common resident
VOICE Song is a rapid series of dry, chattering notes. Calls include various harsh notes
