Cactus Wren (Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus)
The Cactus Wren is the state bird of Arizona, where we live. I was curious why. If it was up to me, I’d have selected the beautiful bright red Northern Cardinal.
According to Arizona State Parks, the Canyon Wren became Arizona’s state bird in 1931 because it embodies the unique spirit, toughness, and beauty of the Sonoran Desert.
SIZE:
It is the largest species of wren:
- Length: 7.1-8.7 in (18-22 cm)
- Weight: 1.1-1.7 oz (32-47 g)
COLOR:
It’s a speckled brown bird with a white stripe across and above red eyes, to the sides of the neck. They have light cinnamon sides and their backs are brown with heavy white streaks. Cactus Wrens have white chests with dark speckles. Males and females look alike, but juveniles are slightly paler and have brown eyes.
PERSONALITY:
Cactus Wrens are not timid and love to perch on cactus or forage for food out in the open. I often have a Cactus Wren perching on a chair outside my window. He stares at me unafraid as I’m on my laptop.
FOOD:
They mostly eat insects, seeds and vegetable matter such as fruit pulp. They don’t need to drink water but get their hydration from cactus fruit and insects.
NESTS:
They weave football shaped nests with one entrance from grasses and twigs inside the safety of cholla cactus or other protective bushes. The male may make several “dummy” nests and the female will choose one to lay her eggs. They mate for life.
CALL:
I have heard the loud gravelly sound of Cactus Wrens months before I saw one.
https://www.allaboutbirds.org/guide/Cactus_Wren/sounds
RANGE:
They are found throughout the Sonoran Desert and other arid regions of Arizona. Also found in Southern California, Nevada, New Mexico and Texas.
I hadn’t known the reason behind the cactus wren being selected as the state bird, but it’s quite poetic that they decided it embodies the unique spirit, toughness, and beauty of the Sonoran Desert. I would have chosen the northern cardinal too… though I never saw one in Phoenix before 2023, so I wonder if we even had a population in 1931 when the selection was made. 🤔
That’s an interesting thought. Were there Cardinals in Arizona in 1931? I do like why the Cactus Wren was selected. It seemed like such an odd choice before I read that. This is my last bird for the Bird of the Week challenge, unless something new pops up in my yard.
So many states have the cardinal. I rather like your cactus wren.
👍
Thank you! I’m partial to my cardinal because I didn’t have any in Washington where I grew up or California where I spent most of my adult life.
Very pretty feather pattern and this bird! Seems they have just the perfect beak for snatching up insects as well.
They are characters. The one who sits on the chair outside my window is so inquisitive.
The spirit, toughness and beauty – so good. I was wondering about your card project. Do you need to state on your posts that the photos are your own and can only used with your permission so that no one reuses them?
Thank you, Wynne. I may put a watermark on my photos or put that statement on my posts. Also on the back of my greeting cards.
A cute bird.
It’s a real character, too!
Awesome. Nothing like observing them first hand
Quite a lovely little bird and so well adapted to its unique environment. I was taken by the fact they don’t have to drink water directly and that they make dummy nests!
Very interesting little birds!
I think I have a lot of wrens over here in my Southern California home. Their little round bodies stand out.
We moved from Southern California to Arizona. We were in Palm Springs. Where are you? I was posting photos and information about birds for a Bird of the Week challenge for the past several months. The Cactus Wren was my final bird unless someone new shows up.
I always wonder how much water birds in dry climates need — if they really get enough from what they eat…I suppose it depends, but I love all of these nuggets you provide, Elizabeth. Learning all the time from you. What a beautiful little bird! 💝💝💝
I have a bird bath that I clean daily and fill with fresh water. It’s only used by sparrows and doves. I’ve never seen another species use it. I would think they’d all like a drink of water! That’s my last bird unless someone new shows up!
Oh no….maybe you can begin again? I’ve enjoyed this series! 💝💝💝
We’ll be spending a few weeks at the beach. I’ll take my camera with me and get some coastal birds!
Yay! I’m sure you’re gonna meet some new friends! 💝
I hope so! Since we’re driving, I’ll have plenty of room for my camera. I haven’t figured out how to take it when I fly.
Sounds like a plan! 💝💝💝
😊👍🏼
That’s a beautiful bird. I’m glad the state chose something which is not as widespread as the cardinal.
It’s a good idea to take your camera on trips. It’s always possible to spot something new. I’ve regretted it when I left my camera at home.
Thanks. It’s a very inquisitive and character of a bird. We are driving to the beach, so it will be easy to take my camera and lenses.
What a beautiful bird! These are all such lovely shots.
Thank you so much!
I love cactus wrens and their big football nests. When we were in Big Bend a few years back, one flew into our camper van. I had to catch it to get it out. They really are hefty for a wren! I just wished I’d thought to take its picture while I had it in hand. I doubt I’ll ever have that opportunity again.
How exciting was that!
Beautiful bird. Did you take these photos?
Yes. Part of the Bird of the Week challenge is to share your photos along with information.
Awesome! Well done then. The photos look fantastic.
Thanks! I was all out of birds for another week. But a new bird showed up and I’m pleased with the photos I took. That will be posted tomorrow.
You’re welcome, and nice!
👍🏼
I have not seen one of those here yet. I’m currently in Phoenix. But then again it’s been so hot I don’t take two seconds to stop to look at anything
It’s finally cooling down!