Grey-barred Wren

The Gray-barred Wren, known scientifically as Campylorhynchus megalopterus, is a bird of modest size, measuring between 17 to 19.5 cm in length and weighing approximately 32.8 to 33.5 grams. Exhibiting sexual monomorphism, both males and females possess a grayish crown with a striking black center, a nape adorned with black and white stripes, and shoulders and back with a pattern of black and white bars. Their throat and chest are a pristine white, speckled with black, while their flanks are a soft buff color, accented with blackish bars.

Identification Tips

To identify this species, look for the distinctive black and white barring on the back and the spotted pattern on the chest. Juveniles can be recognized by their solid brown cap and overall buff and brownish coloration, lacking the barred back and spotted chest of the adults.

Habitat

The Gray-barred Wren is a denizen of montane forests, favoring humid pine-oak woodlands and Abies fir stands. It thrives in both primary and secondary forests, demonstrating a preference for the lush canopy provided by these environments.

Distribution

Endemic to Mexico, the Gray-barred Wren's habitat is split between two subspecies. The nominate subspecies resides in the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt, stretching from Jalisco and Michoacán to western Puebla. The C. m. nelsoni subspecies is found in the southern Sierra Madre Oriental, from west-central Veracruz through eastern Puebla to northern Oaxaca. They are typically found at elevations ranging from 2,100 to 3,150 meters.

Behaviour

While the Gray-barred Wren does not forage on the ground, it is an adept explorer of epiphytes, mosses, and lichens, where it likely seeks out small invertebrates as its primary food source.

Song & Calls

The vocal repertoire of the Gray-barred Wren includes a rapid, harsh chatter that is often performed in duets by both sexes. Its call is a distinctive harsh 'karrr', serving as an auditory hallmark of its presence.

Breeding

The breeding season for this species is suggested to be around May to June. The Gray-barred Wren constructs a domed nest with a side entrance, meticulously crafted from moss and situated high in a tree.

Conservation Status

The IUCN has classified the Gray-barred Wren as Least Concern. It is a common species within its suitable habitat range and appears to be capable of adapting to some degree of habitat modification.