The Antioquia wren is a passerine from the wren family (Troglodytidae). It was discovered in March 2010 in the vicinity of the Cauca River in Antioquia, Colombia and described as a new species by Lara et al (2012). The epithet commemorates the late Marco Antonio Serna Díaz (1936–1991), a Colombian naturalist from San Vicente Ferrer, Antioquia.
Region
Colombian Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs along the Cauca River canyon in northwestern Colombia, primarily in tropical dry forest, thorn scrub, and dense riparian thickets on rocky slopes. It uses early successional and secondary scrub as well as edges with scattered shrubs. Birds keep close to cover, moving through tangled vegetation and cactus-studded slopes. Habitat loss and alteration along the canyon strongly limit its distribution.
Altitude Range
400–1100 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The Antioquia wren is a recently described species (2012) confined to the dry canyon of the Cauca River in Antioquia, Colombia. It favors arid, scrubby slopes and riparian thickets that have been heavily impacted by development, including dam construction. Pairs often duet, producing a loud, musical series that carries through the canyon. Its very restricted range makes it highly sensitive to habitat change.
Temperament
skulking and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats
Social Behavior
Usually found in pairs or small family groups, maintaining territories year-round. Nests are domed or spherical structures placed in dense scrub or low trees. Both sexes participate in territory defense and often move together through cover. Breeding behavior includes duetting and coordinated foraging.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A loud, rich, and melodic series of whistles and trills often delivered as an antiphonal duet between mates. Calls include sharp chips and scolds when alarmed. Songs carry well across canyon slopes.
Plumage
Rufous-brown upperparts with a clean whitish throat and underparts, the flanks showing bold black-and-white barring; tail and wings finely barred. Texture is sleek with close-fitting contour feathers; tail often held cocked.
Diet
Primarily small arthropods such as insects and spiders gleaned from foliage, twigs, and bark. It probes leaf litter and crevices and occasionally hawks short distances after flying insects. Small berries may be taken opportunistically, especially in the dry season when insect activity is lower.
Preferred Environment
Forages within dense scrub, thorny thickets, and riparian vegetation along rocky canyon slopes. Typically keeps to low and mid-levels, weaving through tangled branches and cactus patches.
