Cactus wrens are small, brown, long-tailed songbirds found in the arid regions of the southwestern United States and Mexico. Easily recognized by their distinctive shape, they have long, pointed bills, pale brown, and white-streaked body feathers, and long tails which they hold cocked.
Cactus wrens are highly vocal, and their complex, repetitive songs are one of the most distinctive sounds of the desert. They are also very territorial and defensive, and will often attack intruders, such as other birds or even humans, that come too close to their nests.
Cactus wrens nests are large and complex structures, often made of twigs, cactus spines, and other plant material, and they are typically built high up in a cactus or tree. The female lays 3-5 eggs per clutch, and the male helps to incubate the eggs and raise the young.
Cactus wrens are found in a variety of habitats, including desert scrub, cactus gardens, and canyons. They feed primarily on insects, but will also eat fruits, berries, and seeds.
Cactus wrens are an important part of the desert ecosystem, and they help to control insect populations. They are also a popular bird with birdwatchers, who enjoy their unique songs and their feisty personalities.