Trilling Gnatwren

Overview

The trilling gnatwren (Ramphocaenus melanurus) is a very small bird in the gnatcatcher family, formerly known as the long-billed gnatwren. It is classified as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

Identification

• Length of 12–13 cm with a weight of 8–11 g.
• Long, thin bill and a short, cocked tail that is frequently wagged.
• Grey-brown upperparts with rufous on the sides of the head; white throat shading to buff underparts.
• Call consists of a trilled 'drdrdrdrdrdrdrdrdrdr'.

Habitat

Found in the undergrowth and vines of dry forest and secondary woodland. Its range extends from southeast Mexico south to Ecuador, Peru, and Brazil, including Trinidad.

Diet

Forages actively in vegetation, feeding mainly on insects, insect eggs, and spiders. They usually occur in pairs or family groups.

Did you know?

The genus name Ramphocaenus means 'unusual beak', deriving from Ancient Greek words for 'beak' and 'strange'. It was formerly known as the long-billed gnatwren until two subspecies were split off to become the chattering gnatwren in 2018.