Apolinar's wren is a passerine bird in the family Troglodytidae. It is endemic to Colombia.
Region
Eastern and Central Colombian Andes
Typical Environment
Occurs in high-elevation marshes and lake-edge reedbeds dominated by cattails (Typha), sedges, and rushes. Core sites include wetlands of the Bogotá savanna and nearby Andean valleys in Cundinamarca and Boyacá. It keeps to dense emergent vegetation with standing water and floating mats. Habitat is patchy and heavily impacted by drainage, grazing, and burning.
Altitude Range
2500–4000 m
Climate Zone
Highland
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Apolinar's wren is confined to high-Andean wetlands of central and eastern Colombia, where it skulks through dense cattails and sedges. It is highly sensitive to marsh drainage and burning, making it an indicator of wetland health. Pairs are strongly territorial and often build several domed nests low in reeds.
Temperament
skulking and territorial
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats with low, hopping flights between reeds
Social Behavior
Usually found as pairs or small family groups maintaining year-round territories. Nests are enclosed, globular structures woven into reeds just above water. Breeding occurs during wet seasons, with both sexes involved in territory defense.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Song is a fast series of bright trills, rattles, and buzzy phrases delivered from concealed perches or reed tops. Calls include sharp chips and scolding chatters when disturbed.
