Black-throated wren facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Black-throated wren |
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| Conservation status | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Genus: |
Pheugopedius
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| Species: |
atrogularis
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| Synonyms | |
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Thryothorus atrogularis |
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The black-throated wren (Pheugopedius atrogularis) is a small, active bird that belongs to the wren family, Troglodytidae. These birds are known for their beautiful songs. You can find the black-throated wren in Central America, specifically in countries like Costa Rica, Nicaragua, and Panama.
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About the Black-throated Wren
This bird was once thought to be the same as another wren, the sooty-headed wren. However, scientists noticed important differences. The black-throated wren has unique feather colors, sings different songs, and lives in different areas. Because of these differences, they are now considered separate species. The black-throated wren is also a "monotypic" species. This means it is the only bird in its specific group, or "genus," that has these exact features.
What Does the Black-throated Wren Look Like?
The black-throated wren is about 15 centimeters (6 inches) long. Males usually weigh between 24 and 27 grams (about 0.9 ounces). Females are a bit lighter, weighing around 22.5 grams (about 0.8 ounces).
Adult wrens have dark reddish-brown feathers on their heads and backs. Their lower backs, called the rump, are even redder. Their tails are dark brown with some lighter, faint marks. A big part of their face is black, with some white spots. Their chin, throat, and upper chest are black. The middle of their chest is reddish-brown, and their lower chest and belly are a reddish-chestnut color. Young wrens look a bit different. They are mostly dull dark brown all over. Their colors are not as bright or contrasting as the adult birds.
Where Does the Black-throated Wren Live?
For a long time, people thought the black-throated wren only lived in southeastern Nicaragua, eastern Costa Rica, and western Panama. But since 2010, these birds have also been seen in northern Nicaragua and eastern Honduras.
They prefer to live in lowlands and the lower parts of hills. They especially like forests that are growing back after being cut down, which is called "second growth." These wrens are often found near water sources like rivers or streams.
How Does the Black-throated Wren Behave?
What Does it Eat?
The black-throated wren looks for food close to the ground. It searches in thick plants and bushes. Scientists haven't studied their diet a lot. But it seems they mostly eat insects and spiders.
How Does it Raise its Young?
Not much is known about how the black-throated wren raises its babies. In Costa Rica, their breeding season seems to be from April or May until August. This is when they build nests and lay eggs.
What Does it Sound Like?
The black-throated wren has a very special song. It's described as a series of rich, clear whistles that end with a trill. You can listen to an example of their song here: [1]. They also make different calls. Some calls sound like a fast, noisy rattle, like "praaaaht." Other calls are a deep, rolling sound, like "beewr" or "bweeurr."
Is the Black-throated Wren in Danger?
The IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) has looked at the black-throated wren. They have listed it as a species of "Least Concern." This means it is not currently in immediate danger of disappearing. However, scientists believe its population might be shrinking. This is because its natural home is being destroyed and broken up into smaller pieces.
