Rufous-and-white Wren

The rufous-and-white wren, Thryophilus rufalbus, is a small yet striking member of the wren family. This bird is easily recognized by its chestnut brown upperparts, which are complemented by a darker crown. A strong white supercilium and a brown stripe through the eye add to its distinctive appearance, along with black streaking on the cheeks. The underparts are a crisp white, with black barring on the lower belly and warm brown flanks. The wings and tail exhibit a pattern of black barring.

Identification Tips

Adults measure 14–15 cm in length and weigh between 22–25 g. They can be identified by their barred wings and tail, and the unique combination of rufous and white plumage. The subspecies T. r. minlosi, found in the Andean foothills of Venezuela, shows a greyish tinge to the crown and underparts, which may aid in distinguishing it from other local wren species.

Habitat

The rufous-and-white wren favors dry forests or, in more humid regions, open scrubby woodlands. It is typically found in lowlands and foothills up to an altitude of 1,500 meters.

Distribution

This bird is a resident breeder from the southwesternmost regions of Mexico, extending through to northern Colombia and northwestern Venezuela.

Behaviour

A shy species, the rufous-and-white wren is more often heard than seen. It forages actively in low vegetation or on the ground, usually in pairs.

Song & Calls

The call is a sharp "chek" or an explosive "tuck." The song is a melodious and distinctive sequence of slow hooting whistles, reminiscent of "weee, boo, boo, booo, boo, whit." Pairs may engage in duets, with the second bird responding with a purring "ou-ou-ou-oouu,u,u,u."

Breeding

The nest, resembling a flask in shape, is constructed 2–3 meters high in a tree or shrub. The female incubates the three or four greenish-blue eggs alone for about two weeks until hatching. The young then fledge in approximately the same length of time.

Diet and Feeding

The diet consists mainly of insects, spiders, and other invertebrates, which the wrens actively seek out in their preferred habitats.

Conservation status

The rufous-and-white wren is classified as Least Concern by the IUCN, indicating that it currently faces no significant threats to its survival.