Mike Unwin

Cobb's Wren

About the Cobb's Wren

The Cobb's Wren (Troglodytes cobbi) is a small bird endemic to the Falkland Islands. The Cobb's Wren is brown, with darker markings on the back and lighter on the underparts. It is about 13 cm (5 in) long and has short wings.

The Cobb's Wren rarely flies and moves around the islands by hopping and darting through dense tussock grass, rocky shores, and coastal vegetation. They build their nests on the ground or in sheltered locations such as crevices in rocks or dense vegetation.

Commonality of Cobb's Wrens

Cobb's Wrens are not very common. Their population is relatively small and can be found only on the Falkland Islands.

Protection & Threats

Up to 2016, the Cobb's Wren was classified as Vulnerable. Conservation efforts in the Falklands have helped safeguard Cobb's Wrens from extinction. Today, there are about 12,000 mature birds and their population is stable.

Climate Change

Rising sea levels may reduce the suitable nesting and foraging areas. Altered temperature and rainfall patterns may affect the tussock grass essential to the Cobb's Wren's nesting habits.