Cobb's wren is a fairly small (12-13.5 cm) wren which is endemic to the Falkland Islands. It was formerly classified as a subspecies of the southern house wren but is now commonly considered to be a separate species due to differences in plumage, voice, ecology and morphology.
Region
South Atlantic (Falkland Islands)
Typical Environment
This species is restricted to the Falkland Islands, occurring mainly on rodent-free offshore islets around East and West Falkland. It favors coastal habitats with extensive tussac grass, rocky shorelines, and tangles of driftwood and kelp wrack. Birds are typically found from the intertidal zone up into dense grass and low scrub, rarely venturing far inland. Populations are patchy, strongly tied to islands without invasive predators.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 150 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
Cobb's wren is confined to the Falkland Islands and thrives mainly on small, predator-free offshore islets. It forages along kelp-strewn shorelines and dense tussac grass, often showing little fear of people. The species is highly vulnerable to introduced mammals such as rats and cats, which have eliminated it from many larger islands, but eradication efforts have helped some populations rebound.
Temperament
confiding and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; weak, low flights close to cover
Social Behavior
Usually seen singly or in pairs, defending small coastal territories. Pairs are monogamous for the season and nest in cavities among rocks, tussac bases, driftwood, or crevices. Both sexes take part in territory defense and provisioning of young.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
A bright, musical series of trills and tinkling notes delivered from low perches or within tussac. Calls include sharp scolds and dry chatters when alarmed.
