In the realm of North America, a total of 11 wren species have been observed, and within the confines of Nebraska, an impressive 9 of them have been spotted. Among these wrens, 6 species have the fortune of being categorized as regularly occurring, while the remaining 3 are considered accidental guests. The purpose of this handbook is to equip you with the skills needed to identify these wrens based on their appearance and melodic expressions.
When it comes to wrens inhabiting Nebraska throughout the year, the Carolina Wrens steal the spotlight. However, during the summer season, you can also catch glimpses of House Wrens, Marsh Wrens, Sedge Wrens, and Rock Wrens in the Nebraska region. As for the migration period, Winter Wrens grace the state with their presence. Additionally, keep an eye out for other notable wren species such as Bewick’s Wrens, Canyon Wrens, and Pacific Wrens.
In terms of their physical appearance, wrens may not turn heads with their ordinary looks, but they compensate with their vibrant personalities. These avian creatures are characterized by their small and plump frames, adorned with brown feathers. Notably, their upright tails and resounding voices set them apart from their avian counterparts.
Wrens predominantly dwell in the New World, encompassing North and South America, excluding the Eurasian Wren, which hails from the Old World and graces Europe and Africa with its presence. Within the avian hierarchy, they belong to the Troglodyidae family.
Insects and spiders compose the bulk of wrens’ diets, enabling them to inhabit various environments, including arid and rocky areas with limited greenery.
Initially, it was believed that Winter Wrens, Pacific Wrens, and Eurasian Wrens were one and the same species. However, they have since been distinguished as three separate entities.
Throughout history, wrens have captivated people’s imaginations, becoming intertwined with folklore and symbolism. In Europe, a superstition once prevailed, associating the killing of wrens with misfortune.
To aid your wren identification endeavors in Nebraska, this guide draws upon the avibase database. The wren species are presented in descending order of frequency, as reported by birdwatchers who contributed checklists to ebird.
For a helpful tool in identifying various bird species that grace your backyard, you can obtain a complimentary bird identification photo guide specifically tailored to Nebraska.
Without further ado, here are the 9 wren species you can encounter in Nebraska:
1. House Wren
During summer, House Wrens top the charts as the most frequently observed wrens in Nebraska, accounting for 39% of the checklists submitted by diligent birdwatchers. These small, unassuming birds boast round bodies enveloped in nondescript brown plumage, accentuated by darker wings and tails, with a lighter throat. Males and females bear an identical appearance.
Noteworthy Features: Unlike other wren species, House Wrens exhibit less conspicuous eyestripes.
Scientific Name: Troglodytes aedon
Length: 4.3-5.1 inches (11-13 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (10-12 g)
Wingspan: 5.9 inches (15 cm)
House Wrens engage in summer breeding activities across the United States and southern regions of Canada. During winter, they embark on migration towards the southern regions, including Mexico.
To spot House Wrens, venture into backyards, parks, and open woodlands, where they diligently scour for insects and spiders. Energetically, they hop through tangled vegetation and low branches, often belting out their delightful songs.
Their diet primarily consists of insects and spiders, such as beetles, caterpillars, and flies. Calcium intake is fulfilled by munching on snail shells.
Regarding their vocal talents, House Wrens might lack melodious tunes, but they compensate with a medley of jumbled notes that oscillate in pitch and speed.
Nesting occurs in old woodpecker cavities, nest boxes, or other snug crevices. House Wrens exhibit a preference for lightly forested regions and construct nests from twigs, meticulously lining them with softer materials. They lay 3-10 eggs, with hatching taking approximately two weeks, followed by another two weeks until the fledglings are ready to explore the world.
To entice House Wrens into your backyard, consider leaving brush piles or installing a nest box.
Fun Fact: Despite their small size, House Wrens exhibit tenacious behavior when it comes to securing the best nest sites, often resorting to harassing larger birds, even going as far as displacing eggs or nestlings from coveted locations.
2. Carolina Wren
Carolina Wrens are year-round residents of Nebraska, offering their presence throughout all seasons. In the summer and winter checklists compiled by devoted birdwatchers, they make an appearance in approximately 3% of observations.
These reticent birds boast dark brown plumage atop their bodies, gradually transitioning to a lighter shade underneath. A distinctive white eyebrow stripe adds a touch of elegance, while their tails remain in an upright position.
Scientific Name: Thryothorus ludovicianus
Length: 4.7-5.5 inches (12-14 cm)
Weight: 0.6-0.8 ounces (18-22 g)
Wingspan: 11.4 inches (29 cm)
Carolina Wrens remain year-round residents across the Eastern and Southeastern regions of the United States.
You can encounter Carolina Wrens within woodland areas or thickly vegetated regions, and they may even grace your backyard feeders. Their diet primarily comprises insects and spiders, with occasional forays into consuming lizards, frogs, and snakes.
When it comes to their vocalizations, Carolina Wrens emit short songs consisting of quick whistles.
Nesting typically occurs within trees, although Carolina Wrens exhibit adaptability, constructing nests in various natural or artificial locations. Their nests often sport a circular shape with a small entrance on the side. Clutches consist of 3-7 eggs, with an incubation period of approximately two weeks, followed by an additional two weeks until the chicks take flight.
To entice Carolina Wrens to frequent your backyard feeders, consider providing suet feeders, hulled sunflower seeds, or peanut hearts in large tube feeders or platform feeders.
Fun Fact: Carolina Wrens form lifelong pair bonds, exemplifying their commitment to companionship.
3. Marsh Wren
During the breeding season, Marsh Wrens venture into Nebraska, appearing on 2% of summer checklists. They exhibit the highest prevalence from mid-March to November, with a few individuals opting to remain year-round.
Marsh Wrens possess brown plumage adorned with black and white streaks on their backs, while their underparts display a grayish-brown hue. The wren’s signature upright tail adds to its charm.
Distinguished by the absence of shoulder stripes and longer bills compared to Sedge Wrens, Marsh Wrens exhibit no discernible visual disparities between males and females.
Scientific Name: Cistothorus palustris
Length: 3.9-5.5 inches (10-14 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.5 ounces (9-14 g)
Wingspan: 5.9 inches (15 cm)
Marsh Wrens breed in the northern states of the United States and central regions of Canada before embarking on migratory journeys to southern states and Mexico. Some individuals along the western and Atlantic coasts may choose to remain in the area throughout the year. Marsh Wrens are also sighted during migration in the Eastern United States.
Wetlands serve as prime habitats for Marsh Wrens, where they adeptly cling to reeds, employing their feet to anchor themselves on different stalks. While they might be challenging to spot, listen attentively for their melodies emanating from the reeds, particularly during the twilight hours.
In their quest for sustenance, Marsh Wrens primarily feed on insects and spiders, diligently plucking them from leaves in close proximity to the water’s edge.
When it comes to vocalizations, Marsh Wrens enchant listeners with a distinctive buzzy song, which can extend for up to 20 minutes.
Marsh Wrens construct fully enclosed nests, leaving only a small opening at the top. Their nests are skillfully woven using reeds and grasses. Clutch sizes range from 3-10 eggs, with an incubation period of two weeks, followed by another two weeks until the fledglings are prepared for independence.
Fun Facts: Marsh Wrens exhibit peculiar nesting behavior, constructing up to twenty false nests attached to cattails. However, they usually utilize only one of them, destroying eggs and nestlings found within the rival nests.
4. Sedge Wren
During the breeding season, Sedge Wrens grace Nebraska with their presence, making appearances on approximately 1% of summer checklists. These delightful wrens arrive as early as April and may linger until January, with the best opportunities for sightings falling between May and October.
Sedge Wrens display small, brown bodies with darker upper portions featuring streaks and barring, while their underparts showcase paler shades. A light eyebrow stripe adds a touch of charm. Notably, males and females exhibit similar appearances.
When compared to Marsh Wrens, Sedge Wrens bear a striking resemblance and can be found in similar wet habitats. However, Sedge Wrens lack striped shoulders and boast lighter bellies.
Scientific Name: Cistothorus stellaris
Length: 3.9-4.7 inches (10-12 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.3 ounces (7-10 g)
Wingspan: 4.7-5.5 inches (12-14 cm)
Sedge Wrens breed in southern Canada, the Midwest, and occasionally venture further east in the United States. Come winter, they migrate southward, seeking refuge in southeastern states and northern Mexico, along the Gulf and Atlantic coasts.
To catch a glimpse of these elusive wrens, venture into wet grasslands, marshy areas, and meadows abundant with dense vegetation. Sedge Wrens prefer shallower regions compared to their Marsh Wren counterparts and diligently hunt for insects and spiders.
When it comes to their vocalizations, Sedge Wrens produce a simple song consisting of a few short notes followed by a series of rapid notes at a similar pitch.
Fun Fact: Sedge Wrens display a feisty side, piercing the eggs of neighboring Sedge Wrens if they nest too close, effectively eliminating the competition.
5. Rock Wren
During the summer season, which spans from April to October, Nebraska becomes a temporary haven for Rock Wrens, gracing approximately 1% of summer checklists. These charismatic wrens predominantly inhabit the western regions of the state.
Rock Wrens present pale brown plumage on their backs adorned with darker flecks, while their wings and tails display barring. Underneath, they feature a pale coloration, with buff shades on the lower flanks and belly.
Distinctive features include a pale eyebrow stripe, a long slightly curved bill, and dark legs. Males and females share identical colorations. Notably, Rock Wrens engage in bobbing movements, especially when agitated, providing an aid in identification.
Scientific Name: Salpinctes obsoletus
Length: 4.9-5.9 inches (12.5-15 cm)
Weight: 0.5-0.6 ounces (15-18 g)
Wingspan: 8.7-9.4 inches (22-24 cm)
Rock Wrens inhabit dry and rocky areas within western U.S. states and southwest Canada. While those in the southern and western regions remain year-round residents, those situated in central U.S. states embark on migratory journeys to southern locales for winter.
To spot Rock Wrens, explore dry, rocky landscapes with minimal vegetation. These industrious wrens forage for insects hidden within crevices of rocks.
When it comes to their melodious talents, Rock Wrens exhibit a vast repertoire, with their songs often consisting of repeated sounds before transitioning to a different sequence. Each rendition showcases varying pitches.
Fun Facts: Rock Wrens possess an intriguing habit of constructing walkways made of stones and miscellaneous objects leading to their nests. However, the purpose of these walkways remains a mystery. Additionally, these wrens fulfill their hydration needs solely through their insect diet, abstaining from drinking water.
6. Winter Wren
Winter Wrens make sporadic appearances in Nebraska, particularly during the spring and fall migration seasons. Their highest prevalence is observed in October, accounting for 1.4% of checklists during this time.
Winter Wrens exhibit small and plump bodies adorned in brown plumage. Dark barring can be seen on their wings, tail, and belly, while a paler eyebrow stripe adds a touch of elegance. These wrens sport short tails, which they proudly keep in an upright position. Notably, males and females bear an identical appearance.
Winter Wrens bear a striking resemblance to Pacific Wrens, and there was once a belief that they were the same species. However, they have since been classified as separate entities, boasting distinct songs.
Scientific Name: Troglodytes hiemalis
Length: 3.1-4.7 inches (8-12 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (8-12 g)
Wingspan: 4.7-6.3 inches (12-16 cm)
Winter Wrens inhabit eastern regions of the United States during winter, while they spend their summers in northeastern U.S. states and Canada.
To locate Winter Wrens, search within dense undergrowth of forests and backyards. They possess a penchant for rummaging through fallen leaves and decaying bark in search of insects and spiders.
Winter Wrens delight listeners with their enchanting songs, featuring long, bubbly melodies that are slower than those of Pacific Wrens, lasting up to 10 seconds.
Fun Fact: Winter Wrens construct nests that take on a round shape, often with a small opening, and occasionally suspend them from tree branches.
7. Bewick’s Wren
Bewick’s Wrens are considered rare and accidental visitors in Nebraska, with the last confirmed sighting dating back to 2013.
These wrens present brown-backed plumage accompanied by long, gray, upright tails adorned with darker barring. Their gray bellies and white eye stripes contribute to their distinctive appearance.
Scientific Name: Thryomanes bewickii
Length: 5.1 inches (13 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (8-12 g)
Bewick’s Wrens reside year-round in southern and western U.S. states, occasionally displaying minor movements during winter.
You can find Bewick’s Wrens in scrublands, thickets, and open woodlands, where they nimbly hop from branch to branch, showcasing their tail-flicking abilities. In terms of their diet, they primarily consume insects and larvae, including bees, bugs, caterpillars, and beetles.
When it comes to vocalizations, Bewick’s Wrens commence their melodious performances with a couple of short higher notes, transitioning into lower-pitched buzzy notes.
Nesting sites for Bewick’s Wrens include rock ledges, old woodpecker nests, nest boxes, or crevices in buildings. Their cup-shaped nests are skillfully crafted using sticks and grasses, complemented by a soft lining. Clutch sizes range from 3-8 eggs, with an incubation period of approximately two weeks, followed by another two weeks until the fledglings take flight.
To attract Bewick’s Wrens to your backyard, consider providing suet, mealworms, and hulled sunflower seeds.
Fun Fact: Bewick’s Wrens have experienced a decline in the eastern United States, attributed to the encroachment of House Wrens, which aggressively eliminate their eggs.
8. Canyon Wren
Canyon Wrens are considered extremely rare and accidental visitors to Nebraska, with the last recorded sighting dating back to 2016.
These charismatic wrens showcase stocky brown bodies adorned with white throats and lighter barred tails. Their grayish-brown heads feature speckles, while short, strong legs enable them to cling to rocks with ease. Both males and females share similar colorations.
Distinctive features of Canyon Wrens include their presence in rocky areas similar to Rock Wrens, but with white throats and dark bellies.
Scientific Name: Catherpes mexicanus
Length: 4.5-6.1 inches (11.4-15.4 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.7 ounces (9.9-18.3 g)
Wingspan: 7.1-7.9 inches (18-20 cm)
Canyon Wrens inhabit the western regions, ranging from southern British Columbia down through western U.S. states and into Mexico. They do not engage in migration.
To catch a glimpse of Canyon Wrens, explore rocky areas where they forage for insects and spiders nestled within crevices. Their short, strong legs enable them to cling to rocks and even scale vertical cliffs.
Canyon Wrens captivate with their distinctive descending songs, gradually slowing down and concluding with a few raspy notes.
Fun Fact: Canyon Wrens have been observed stealing food from spider webs and wasp nests.
9. Pacific Wren
Pacific Wrens are considered accidental visitors to Nebraska, with sparse sightings recorded in Nebraska National Forest.
These wrens exhibit brown plumage throughout their bodies, characterized by darker barring on the wings, tail, and belly. A paler eyebrow stripe adds a touch of contrast. Pacific Wrens hold the title of being the smallest wren species in the United States.
Scientific Name: Troglodytes pacificus
Length: 3.1-4.7 inches (8-12 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 ounces (8-12 g)
Wingspan: 4.7-6.3 inches (12-16 cm)
Pacific Wrens primarily inhabit the West Coast, ranging from Alaska to California. Coastal populations remain year-round residents, while those located further inland embark on migratory journeys southward during winter, seeking refuge near the Gulf and Atlantic coasts.
To locate Pacific Wrens, search within forested areas, paying close attention to tangled undergrowth. These wrens have a knack for rummaging through fallen leaves and decaying bark in search of insects and spiders.
When it comes to their vocalizations, Pacific Wrens enchant listeners with their repertoire of many different fast, high-pitched notes, producing a long and jumbled song.
Fun Facts: Pacific Wrens often huddle together when temperatures drop, with multiple individuals seeking refuge in the same cavity or nest box. In some instances, over 30 Pacific Wrens have been found congregating in a single nest box.
How to Attract Wrens to Your Backyard
Having wrens visit your backyard provides an opportunity to enjoy their beautiful songs and observe their lively behavior up close. While only a few wren species regularly frequent backyards, such as House Wrens, Carolina Wrens, and Bewick’s Wrens, you can take steps to attract them to your outdoor space. Consider the following ideas:
1. Embrace a Natural Habitat: Create an environment that appeals to wrens by maintaining a slightly untidy backyard. Leave fallen leaves, brush piles, and spider webs, as they provide habitats for the insects and spiders that wrens love to feed on.
2. Offer Clean Water: Provide a clean water source, preferably with running water, in multiple locations throughout your backyard. Wrens will appreciate a reliable water supply for drinking and bathing.
3. Nesting Sites: Wrens readily utilize nest boxes, so consider installing suitable ones in your backyard. Alternatively, they may even make use of old boots or crevices in trees for nesting. Ensure that nesting sites are well-hidden and protected.
4. Food Sources: Supplement the natural food supply by offering mealworms, crickets, and other small insects that wrens enjoy. You can also provide peanut pieces and suet to attract them. Additionally, planting native plants that attract insects can help sustain their food sources.
How Frequently Wrens are Spotted in Summer and Winter in Nebraska
Checklists provide valuable insights into the frequency of wren sightings. The following data reflects the most commonly recorded wren species on eBird checklists during summer and winter in Nebraska:
Wrens in Nebraska in Summer:
– House Wren: 39.6%
– Carolina Wren: 3.7%
– Marsh Wren: 2.4%
– Sedge Wren: 1.6%
– Rock Wren: 1.1%
– Winter Wren: <0.1%
– Bewick’s Wren: <0.1%
– Canyon Wren: <0.1%
Wrens in Nebraska in Winter:
– Carolina Wren: 3.3%
– Winter Wren: 0.5%
– Marsh Wren: 0.1%
– House Wren: <0.1%
– Sedge Wren: <0.1%
– Canyon Wren: <0.1%
– Pacific Wren: <0.1%
These percentages indicate the relative frequency of each wren species on checklists submitted by bird watchers on eBird.
By creating a welcoming habitat and providing suitable resources, you can increase the chances of attracting wrens to your backyard in Nebraska and enjoy their delightful presence.