NZ's smallest bird may be a missing link in the evolution of birdsong

July 6, 2024 7:03 PM

NZ's smallest bird may be a missing link in the evolution of birdsong. Scientists used to think birds were split into two groups: those that learn or imitate sounds, and those that can't. But a tiny wren from Aotearoa New Zealand bridges the two.
posted by chariot pulled by cassowaries (9 comments total)

squee 🐥
posted by HearHere at 7:38 PM on July 6

If it's a wren, it's got a rattle. But does it flick its tail? If so, case closed. It's a wren.
posted by y2karl at 8:28 PM on July 6

If it's a wren, it's got a rattle. But does it flick its tail? If so, case closed. It's a wren

New Zealand wrens (Family: Acanthisittidae) are not true wrens (Family: Troglodytidae) - they were named wrens by Europeans who thought that they looked like European wrens.
posted by chariot pulled by cassowaries at 8:44 PM on July 6 [4 favorites]

It figures. Never mind. But you got admit Troglodytidae is a cool family name.
posted by y2karl at 8:45 PM on July 6 [1 favorite]

I like that first photo which looks like a researcher defending herself against a giant wren with a Dr. Who-style tool/pistol thing.

Also, interesting bird information.
posted by GenjiandProust at 3:52 AM on July 7

You gotta doubt European settlers' naming skills/imagination when they called this tiny thing a rifleman. Unless they've taken wrens' notorious territorial aggression to the next level and actually tote impossibly small long guns.

Also, mittle birb, squee!
posted by scruss at 8:41 AM on July 7 [2 favorites]

A cool bird that is now even cooler and more interesting!
posted by rednikki at 8:51 AM on July 7

If they're anything like Carolina Wrens in behavior, a military name could be apt. Those little birds are *fierce*.
posted by Belostomatidae at 12:55 PM on July 7 [1 favorite]

they called this tiny thing a rifleman

I understand the name arose due to the percieved similarity of its plumage to a military uniform.
posted by HiroProtagonist at 8:37 PM on July 7 [1 favorite]