Rufous-backed Wren Campylorhynchus capistratus (prev. rufinucha)

The Rufous-backed Wren is native to the Pacific side of southern Mexico through to Costa Rica. It is large for a wren, at some 6-7 inches long.

Previously called the Rufous-naped Wren, Campylorhynchus rufinucha, since 2009 some authorities have accepted that name for just the nominal "Veracruz" subspecies (now species) and C. capistratus, now full species, covering the several other previous subspecies under the Rufous-backed name. Not all authorities accept this change.

It is not timid around human settlements - in fact it seeks out proximity to humans, wasps' nests and similar as nesting sites to protect its nest from predators. These photos were taken by Alexandra Makhnina of a family of wrens nesting under the balcony of a hotel in Costa Rica.