The Falkland Islands have only two endemic bird species – the Falklands Steamer Duck and the Cobb’s Wren. Cobb’s Wrens are tiny little birds that are easily overlooked but deserve to be showcased. Living and nesting close to the ground they’re restricted to pest free islands and spend their days diving in and out of tussac grass and hunting for insects under driftwood, rocks and dried kelp on the beaches. They disappear under boulders like a mouse, emerging some time later from a completely different spot. While their plumage is a soft brown, the inside of their beaks is a contrasting bright orange, seen when they break out in song. They are tame and can be approached closely. It’s a pleasure to sit and watch them go about their daily business so unperturbed by human presence.
