Tooth-billed Wren

The Tooth-billed Wren, a diminutive avian species, measures a mere 12 cm in length, with a recorded weight for one male at 11 g. This bird is adorned with a grayish cinnamon crown, a face of grayish brown, and a medium gray back. Its throat and breast exhibit a buffy gray hue, transitioning to a pale buff belly and grayish white flanks. The juvenile's plumage mirrors that of the adult.

Identification Tips

When attempting to identify the Tooth-billed Wren, look for its distinctive grayish cinnamon crown and medium gray back. The buffy gray throat and breast, along with the pale buff belly, are key characteristics to note. Its small size and coloration make it a unique species within its habitat.

Habitat

This species thrives in the tall, humid lowland forests of South America, particularly in areas that do not exceed 600 meters above sea level.

Distribution

The Tooth-billed Wren is predominantly found within the Brazilian territory, with its range marginally extending into Bolivia's Santa Cruz Department. Its habitat lies south of the Amazon River, nestled between the Madeira River to the west and the Xingú River to the east.

Behaviour

The Tooth-billed Wren is an insectivorous bird, often seen foraging in the forest canopy, between 15 to 30 meters above the ground. It is known to be a part of mixed-species foraging flocks, where it actively explores and probes the foliage along branches and within vine tangles.

Song & calls

Both sexes of the Tooth-billed Wren are known to vocalize a "short, simple trill," a song characteristic of the species.

Breeding

The breeding season for the Tooth-billed Wren is suggested to occur from June to September. This is inferred from observations of active nests, dependent juveniles, and physiological evidence. The species nests in cavities located high within tree limbs or trunks, and it is believed that the clutch size typically consists of two eggs.

Conservation status

The IUCN has classified the Tooth-billed Wren as Least Concern. Although the exact population numbers are not determined, there is a suspicion of a decline approaching 30% over three generations.