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Overview
Spot-breasted wren

Spot-breasted wren

Wikipedia

The spot-breasted wren is a species of bird in the family Troglodytidae. It is found in Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, and Nicaragua.

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Distribution

Region

Central America and southern Mexico

Typical Environment

Occupies lowland and foothill habitats including tropical dry forest, semi-deciduous woodland, scrubby second growth, and forest edges. Common in riparian thickets, tangled vine patches, and hedgerows. Frequently found near villages, plantations, and gardens where dense understory is available. Prefers dense cover from which it forages close to the ground and in the lower midstory.

Altitude Range

Sea level to 1500 m

Climate Zone

Tropical

Characteristics

Size13–14 cm
Wing Span16–20 cm
Male Weight0.02 kg
Female Weight0.018 kg
Life Expectancy6 years

Ease of Keeping

Beginner friendly: 1/5

Useful to know

A lively wren of thickets and scrub, the spot-breasted wren often forages in pairs and stays low in dense cover. Its rich, musical song carries surprisingly far, and pairs frequently duet to advertise and defend territory. It readily occupies edges, second growth, and gardens near human settlements.

Gallery

Bird photo
Bird photo
Bird photo

Behaviour

Temperament

secretive and territorial

Flight Pattern

short rapid wingbeats with low, darting flights

Social Behavior

Typically found in pairs that maintain year-round territories. Pairs often forage together and communicate with soft calls and duets. Nests are placed in cavities or dense vegetation, forming a domed structure concealed within tangles.

Migratory Pattern

Resident

Song Description

A rich, loud series of clear, whistled notes delivered in varied phrases. Pairs frequently duet, with coordinated, antiphonal exchanges; scolding calls are harsher and more chattering.

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