High in the Costa Rican mountains, where the air is crisp and the views are endless, you might catch a glimpse of a sprightly bird flitting through the trees. This burst of rufous brown is the Rufous-backed Wren (Campylorhynchus capistratus), a resident songbird gracing the mountain slopes from southwest Mexico all the way down to northwestern Costa Rica.
These little bundles of energy are a delight to observe. At about 6.7 inches long, they’re not the biggest birds, but their bold patterns and lively personalities make them hard to miss.
A Striking Appearance
The Rufous-backed Wren lives up to its name with a gorgeous display of rufous (a rusty reddish-brown) coloring. Their crown and eyestripe are a sleek black, contrasted by a bright white stripe that runs above their eye. The nape – the back of their neck – is where the rufous truly shines, creating a stunning splash of color.
Their back and wings are a beautiful tapestry of cinnamon to chestnut feathers, intricately streaked with black and white, especially on the rump. The black and grayish-white bars on their wings and tail add another layer of visual interest.
Young Rufous-backed Wrens don’t quite have the same vibrancy as their adult counterparts. Their upperparts are a duller version of the adults’ colors, and their underparts are a buff color instead of a bright white.
A Life in the Mountains
The Rufous-backed Wren is a true mountain dweller, preferring the drier side of things. You’ll find them flitting through thorn forests and dry scrubland, their sharp eyes searching for insects and other small invertebrates amongst the leaves and branches.
While they primarily reside in these arid areas, the Rufous-backed Wren can also be spotted in more humid scrub and semi-open areas, particularly on the coastal slopes of Chiapas, Mexico. Here, they might be confused with their larger cousin, the Giant Wren.
A Social Butterfly (or Wren!)
The Rufous-backed Wren isn’t a solitary bird. They’re often seen in small groups, hopping from branch to branch and keeping a watchful eye on their surroundings. They’re also quite vocal, filling the mountain air with their melodic songs.
A Sight (and Sound) to Behold
If you’re lucky enough to visit our mountain retreat in Costa Rica, keep your eyes peeled (and ears open) for the Rufous-backed Wren. Their vibrant colors, energetic personalities, and delightful songs are sure to brighten your day.
For the bird enthusiasts out there, don’t forget to pack your binoculars! With a little patience and perseverance, you might just get the perfect glimpse of this remarkable mountain wren.
For more information, please view our comprehensive guide about the birds of Costa Rica
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