© David McDonald, Pine Gully Park 12/20/2009
Rock Wren
Salpinctes obsoletus
Family: (Troglodytidae) Wrens
Preferred Habitat: Arid and semiarid regions with exposed rocks.
Seasonal Occurrence: Rare in winter.
IUCN Conservation Status: Least Concern
Notes: Common in west Texas, Rock Wrens are very rarely found on the Upper Texas Coast. The individuals photographed by David McDonald were present in Seabrook at Pine Gully Park in December, 2009. David reported this is only the 3rd UTC record with the previous 2 in Chambers County, the last one being in 1982. Rock Wrens have an overall pale appearance; sexes look alike. According to Cornell Lab, Rock Wrens build a small pavement of pebbles leading to their nest which is usually in a rocky crevice. They are also known to not drink water, even in captivity, but instead get all their water from food.
- Susan Billetdeaux
© David McDonald, Pine Gully Park 12/20/2009
