The giant wren is a species of bird in the family Troglodytidae. It is found in Mexico and Guatemala.
Region
Pacific slope of Chiapas (Mexico) and western Guatemala
Typical Environment
Occurs mainly in coastal and near-coastal lowlands with dense thickets, thorn scrub, and second-growth woodland. Frequently uses human‑modified habitats such as hedgerows, gardens, and coconut or other tree plantations. It forages from the ground up into mid-canopy, favoring tangled vegetation and shrubby edges. Local populations are patchy but can be common where suitable cover is abundant.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 1000 m
Climate Zone
Tropical
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
The giant wren is one of the largest wrens, notable for its loud, ringing duet songs given by pairs. It inhabits coastal lowlands of Chiapas, Mexico, and adjacent western Guatemala, where it adapts well to scrub, second-growth, and plantations. Pairs maintain year‑round territories and often remain in the same area for long periods.
Temperament
social and active
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats; low, direct flights between cover
Social Behavior
Usually seen in pairs or small family groups that defend territories year-round. Builds large, bulky nests in shrubs or trees, sometimes in palms within plantations. Both sexes participate in nest defense and vocal duets.
Migratory Pattern
Resident
Song Description
Loud, ringing series of whistles and trills, often performed as coordinated duets by a pair. Calls include sharp chatters and scolding notes when alarmed.
Plumage
Large, heavy-bodied wren with coarse, slightly barred brown upperparts and paler, buffy underparts. Shows a bold white supercilium and a clean whitish throat, with a long tail showing dark barring. Flight feathers and tail often appear darker with contrasting pale edges.
Diet
Primarily consumes insects and other small arthropods gleaned from foliage, bark, and leaf litter. Will probe into crevices and sift through tangles for beetles, spiders, and caterpillars. Occasionally takes small fruits or berries, especially in the dry season when insects are less abundant.
Preferred Environment
Forages in dense scrub, hedgerows, and secondary woodland edges. Common around agricultural mosaics and plantation groves where shrubs and palms provide cover.
