Wallcreeper
Image: 管牧山 (cc-by-nc)
NameWallcreeper
Common NameWallcreeper
Scientific NameTichodroma muraria
FamilyTichodromidae
Wingspan (cm)29.5
Length (cm)16.25
Weight (g)18
Plumage DetailsAdults have a grey head, back, and underparts, with a darker grey throat in breeding males. The most striking feature is the large crimson patches on the primary and secondary coverts of the wings, contrasting with black flight feathers and white spots on the primaries. The tail is short and dark.
Vocalization / CallIts call is a high-pitched, clear, whistling 'twee' or 'tui', often repeated. It also has a soft, trilling song.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsrocky mountains, cliffs, gorges, rock faces
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeFound in the high mountains of Eurasia, from the Pyrenees and Alps across Central Asia to the Himalayas and China. It typically breeds at high altitudes and descends to lower elevations in winter.
Identifying Featureslong, slender, downcurved bill, grey body plumage, striking crimson wing patches (especially visible in flight), unique climbing behavior on vertical rock faces, short tail
Description
The Wallcreeper is a small, distinctive bird renowned for its unique climbing ability on vertical rock faces. It possesses a grey body, a long, slender, downcurved bill, and striking crimson patches on its wings, which are most visible in flight or when spread.
