Description
Size: 6”
Plumage/Description: Male and female plumage similar. A small overall gray bird with a fairly long, slightly curved beak. Well camouflaged to blend in with a rocky habitat. Darker gray on top, lighter gray on underside, with a faint eye-stripe. Barring on the under-tail covert and tail feathers. Belly and edges of tail feathers have a buffy, creamy wash of color.
Habitat: Suburban, Residential
Time of year: Year-round
Relative Abundance: Fairly common in proper habitat
Behavior: Rock Wrens prefer areas with an extensive amount of rock—including residential areas which have been landscaped with decorative, non-native rocks. One unique behavior is the deep-knee bends which gives it a ‘bobbing’ appearance. Very vocal, like most wrens calls and sings frequently. Usually seen in pairs. Actively forages for insects, using their long, thin beak to probe in cracks and crevices.
Diet: Insects
Similar species: Canyon Wren
Best Sites: Prescott Lakes subdivision, Carrington Homes subdivision (off of Rosser)