The Cactus Wren (Campylorhynchus brunneicapillus) is the largest wren native to the United States (7 to 8 inches) whose distinguishing marks include heavily spotted breast and white eye stripe. The crown is rust colored, the tail is barred with black and white with a white tail band. Unlike other wrens, the Cactus Wren does not cock its tail. The name Campylorhynchus means curved beak.

The voice is a low raspy series of notes. This bird lives in desert terrain among thorny shrubs and cacti.

Both male and female build the nest, which is large, spherical and made of dry grass and plant material. The nest is placed at the tops of desert shrubs or spiny cactus, such as the cholla cactus or the giant saguaro. There is a side entrance. Other nests are also constructed and used as roosts throughout the year.

There are 3 to 6 brown-streaked buff-colored eggs. Incubation takes 16 days. The young fledge in about 20 days but remain dependent on the parents for about another month

Cactus wrens feed on insects, seeds fruit and an occasional frog or lizard.

The range is the southwest area of the United States, primarily in California, Nevada, Arizona, Utah and western Texas. This is the state bird of Arizona.

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