Bicolored Wren

The bicolored wren, a robust and striking bird, stands as the largest of its kin in South America and is second only to the giant wren in size within the Troglodytidae family. Adults typically measure between 21 to 22 cm in length and weigh between 37 to 46.5 grams. Both sexes present a similar plumage, characterized by a dark chocolate crown and nape, with paler chocolate upperparts. A distinctive off-white supercilium contrasts with the dark brown eye stripe, while the face itself is predominantly white. The tail, dark brown in color, features a white band near the end on all but the central feathers. The underparts of this bird are a clean white.

Identification Tips

When identifying the bicolored wren, look for the contrasting white supercilium and dark eye stripe, as well as the white band on the tail feathers. The bird's size is also a distinguishing feature, being notably larger than other wrens in its range.

Habitat

The bicolored wren favors areas with scattered trees and shrubbery, avoiding dense forests and open terrains. It can be found in arid thorn scrub and more humid regions, adapting well to various environments.

Distribution

This species is endemic to South America, with its range extending across Colombia, Venezuela, Guyana, and into northern Brazil. Its presence has been noted from sea level to elevations of 2,100 meters in Colombia and 1,600 meters in Venezuela.

Behaviour

The bicolored wren is known for its cooperative breeding behavior, with family members assisting in nest defense and chick feeding. It is an adaptable bird, capable of coexisting with human agricultural activities, such as ranching, as long as sufficient vegetation remains.

Song & Calls

The male's song consists of a series of loud, gurgling notes, while the female's song includes a trill. Calls are typically harsh and grating, with variations across the species' range.

Breeding

In Venezuela, the bicolored wren breeds during two seasons: January to March and May to August. The nest, a well-concealed dome with a side entrance, is constructed high in a tree, sometimes utilizing the abandoned nests of other species. Clutch sizes range from three to five eggs.

Similar Species

The bicolored wren may be confused with the giant wren due to its size, but the latter is generally not found within the same geographic range.

Diet and Feeding

Primarily an invertebrate feeder, the bicolored wren also includes berries and other vegetable matter in its diet. It forages both in trees and on the ground.

Conservation status

The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified the bicolored wren as Least Concern, noting its common to abundant status and its ability to tolerate significant habitat modification.