Wallcreeper
Image: 管牧山 (cc-by-nc)
NameWallcreeper
Common NameWallcreeper
Scientific NameTichodroma muraria
FamilyTichodromidae
Wingspan (cm)27
Length (cm)16
Weight (g)18
Plumage DetailsThe body plumage is primarily grey, darker on the back and lighter on the belly. The most striking feature is the large crimson-red patches on the primary and secondary wing coverts, which contrast with the blackish flight feathers that also feature white spots. Males in breeding plumage develop a black throat and breast, while females and non-breeding males have a grey throat.
Vocalization / CallIts vocalizations include a thin, high-pitched 'tsee' or 'tsee-tsee-tsee' call, often repeated. It also produces a soft, warbling song.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsrocky mountains, cliffs, gorges, quarries, buildings
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the high mountains of Eurasia, with a discontinuous range extending from the Pyrenees and Alps through Central Asia to the Himalayas and China. It typically breeds at high altitudes and descends to lower elevations in winter.
Identifying FeaturesGrey body plumage, Large crimson-red wing patches (especially visible in flight), Long, slender, downcurved bill, Creeping behavior on vertical rock faces, Butterfly-like flight
Description
The Wallcreeper is a distinctive small passerine bird known for its unique climbing behavior on vertical rock faces. It has a long, slender, downcurved bill and striking crimson-red patches on its wings, which are particularly visible in flight. This species exhibits a butterfly-like flight pattern.
