Pacific Wren, Troglodytes Pacificus

Day 168: These dear little birds are difficult to spot, elusive and extraordinarily hard to photograph and, arguably, are one of the most vociferous species to be found in our local forests. Pacific Wren has only recently been given status as separate from Winter Wren (Troglodytes pacificus and T. troglodytes respectively). Smaller than a sparrow or junco, they have a rounder outline (a "birb," if you will). They love to hide in brush piles and thickets and, as this individual will attest, they often nest behind a curtain of moss overhanging a shady rock face. It is their vocalization which gives their presence away, or as I often say, "How can that little tiny bird hold so much song?" It goes on forever, rising and falling like the final grand aria in an opera. The singer's secret is held in its breathing apparatus, the syrinx. This double-chambered organ allows birds to sound notes while inhaling or exhaling, similar to the circular breathing practiced by players of the didgeridoo. While this isn't a particularly good photo of Wrenny, it is one of very few I have been allowed to take of a species which holds a very special place in my heart.