Photographic key to determine age in two Thryothorus wrens from Nicaragua's Pacific slope

Photographic key to determine age in two Thryothorus wrens from Nicaragua's Pacific slope. - We used plumage and molt characteristics to determine age in two Neotropical species of the family Troglodytidae, Rufous-and-White Wren (Thryothorus rufalbus) and Plain Wren (T. modestus). Color density, shape, and strength of the black barring in the remiges, rectrices, and greater coverts are more prominent in UCB and DCB birds than in FCJ and FCF individuals. We used wing length in combination with plumage characters and brood patch to determine the sex of Thryothorus rufalbus and caution against relying solely on meristics. These results are useful in age determination within the group. Knowledge of the demographics of species sensitive to disturbance, including several members of the family Troglodytidae, is essential in habitat conservation and management.