Wrens (Troglodytidae)
Cactus Wren
Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus. Insects, cactus fruit and seeds.
Wrens (Troglodytidae)Cactus WrenCampylorhynchus brunneicapillus
- Scientific name
- Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus
- Length
- 7.1–7.5 in
- Weight
- 1.2–1.7 oz
- Nest
- Domed grass nest in cholla or thorny shrubs
- Entrance hole
- Does not use nest boxes
- Clutch
- 3–5 eggs
- Incubation
- 16 days
- Broods
- 2–3 per season
Identification
- Largest US wren
- Heavily spotted breast
- Bold white eyebrow
Voice
Harsh, car-starting 'cha-cha-cha-cha'.
Diet and feeding
Insects, cactus fruit and seeds.
Cactus Wrens by state and province
| Region | Status | Nesting |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona | Year-round resident | February–July |
| California | Year-round resident | February–July |
| Nevada | Year-round resident | March–July |
| New Mexico | Year-round resident | March–July |
| Texas | Year-round resident | February–July |
| Utah | Year-round resident | March–July |
Frequently asked
What do cactus wrens eat?
Insects, cactus fruit and seeds. At feeders: mealworms, fruit.
How big is a Cactus Wren?
7.1–7.5 in long and 1.2–1.7 oz.
Do cactus wrens use birdhouses?
No. Domed grass nest in cholla or thorny shrubs.
Sources
- Cactus Wren — All About Birds, Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Cactus Wren life history — Cornell Lab of Ornithology
- Cactus Wren — Audubon Guide to North American Birds
Timing reflects typical patterns for the region as a whole; local dates vary with elevation and year. Check the linked eBird bar charts for your county.