Thrush-like Wren

Overview

The thrush-like wren (Campylorhynchus turdinus) is a South American bird in the wren family, Troglodytidae. Although its size and colouring vaguely resemble that of a thrush, the bird gives a completely different impression in life.

Identification

• Approximately 20 cm in length, making it one of the largest wrens.
• Brownish-grey head and mantle with dull brown wings and upper tail featuring dense blackish barring.
• Whitish underparts heavily spotted with dusky, except on the throat, accompanied by a distinctive whitish eyebrow.
• Relatively long and thick, slightly decurved bill; irides are dull amber, maroon, or brown.
• Loud, complex voice that is highly characteristic and often the primary means of detecting the inconspicuous bird.

Habitat

Found in South America across three main regions: the southern and western Amazon rainforest, the drier and more open wooded habitats of the Pantanal, and the narrow coastal belt of Atlantic moist forests in eastern Brazil. Unlike most other wrens, it typically inhabits areas from mid-levels up to canopy height.

Diet

Feeds primarily on insects but also consumes vegetable matter and small invertebrates. Typically forages in pairs or small groups.

Did you know?

Despite its common and scientific names suggesting a thrush resemblance, the bird's general impression in life is described as 'not at all thrush-like'.