Wyoming is home to a variety of wren species, with a total of 11 different types found in North America. Out of these, 9 species have been observed in Wyoming. Among them, 5 wren species are considered regular inhabitants, while 4 are considered accidental visitors. This comprehensive guide aims to assist you in recognizing these wrens based on their appearance and vocalizations.
Throughout the year, you can find Canyon Wrens in Wyoming. During the summer months, House Wrens, Rock Wrens, Marsh Wrens, and Bewick’s Wrens also make appearances. Additionally, keep an eye out for Pacific Wrens, Winter Wrens, Sedge Wrens, and Carolina Wrens in Wyoming.
Wrens, although unassuming in their appearance, are small songbirds with charismatic personalities. They possess a plump, brown body, relatively small size, upright tails, and powerful voices.
Unlike the Eurasian Wren found in Europe and Africa, wrens are native to the Americas, belonging to the Troglodyidae family of birds. They are adaptable creatures that thrive in diverse environments, including dry and rocky areas with limited vegetation, thanks to their diet primarily consisting of insects and spiders.
Previously, it was believed that the Winter Wren, Pacific Wren, and Eurasian Wren were the same species. However, recent studies have recognized them as distinct species.
Throughout history, wrens have been associated with folklore and symbolic meanings. In Europe, it was believed that harming wrens would bring about bad luck.
This guide, inspired by avibase, offers valuable information on identifying the wren species in Wyoming. The wrens are listed based on their frequency of sightings, ranging from the most commonly observed to the least observed, as reported by birdwatchers on ebird.
For a helpful resource in identifying various bird species, including those that visit your backyard, you can obtain a free bird identification photo guide specific to Wyoming.
Here are the 9 species of wrens found in Wyoming:
1. House Wren
House Wrens breed in Wyoming during the summer season and appear in 13% of the checklists submitted by birdwatchers. They are frequently sighted from April to October before migrating south for the winter. House Wrens are small, round birds with brown plumage, darker barred wings and tails, and a lighter throat. Male and female House Wrens look identical, and their distinguishing feature is their less prominent eyestripe.
Scientific name: Troglodytes aedon
Length: 4.3-5.1 in (11-13 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 oz (10-12 g)
Wingspan: 5.9 in (15 cm)
During their breeding season, House Wrens are commonly found in backyards, parks, and open woods, where they actively forage for insects and spiders. Their energetic movements include hopping through branches with their tails held high, pausing intermittently to deliver their cheerful songs. In addition to insects and spiders, House Wrens consume snail shells as a source of calcium.
The song of the House Wren consists of a series of jumbled notes, varying in pitch and speed rather than melodic tunes.
House Wrens build their nests in old woodpecker holes, nest boxes, or other small crevices, often in lightly wooded areas. Their nests are constructed using twigs and lined with softer materials. House Wrens lay 3 to 10 eggs, which hatch after approximately two weeks, and the chicks fledge in another two weeks.
To attract House Wrens to your backyard, consider providing piles of brush or installing a nest box.
Fun fact: Despite their small size, House Wrens display a fierce nature when competing for the best nest holes, often displacing larger birds and even removing eggs or nestlings.
2. Rock Wren
Rock Wrens are summer residents of Wyoming, appearing in 3% of the checklists during this season. They begin arriving as early as February and stay until November, with the peak observation period being May to September.
These birds have pale brown plumage with darker flecks and barring on their wings and tail. Their undersides are pale, with buff-colored flanks and belly. Rock Wrens exhibit a distinctive pale eyebrow stripe, a long slightly curved bill, and dark legs. Males and females have similar appearances.
Scientific name: Salpinctes obsoletus
Length: 4.9-5.9 in (12.5-15 cm)
Weight: 0.5-0.6 oz (15-18 g)
Wingspan: 8.7-9.4 in (22-24 cm)
Rock Wrens are typically found in dry, rocky areas throughout western US states and southwestern Canada. While some populations remain resident year-round, those in central US states migrate south for the winter.
When searching for Rock Wrens, explore dry and rocky landscapes with minimal vegetation. They feed on insects residing within crevices and cracks in rocks.
The song of the Rock Wren is a diverse repertoire of over 100 songs, characterized by repeating a single sound several times before transitioning to a different sound. Each rendition showcases variations in pitch.
Rock Wrens construct their nests on the ground, often in cavities or depressions among rocky regions. They build a layer of small stones, followed by softer materials such as wool and moss. With up to 8 eggs per clutch and the potential for up to 3 broods per year, Rock Wrens exhibit remarkable reproductive capacity.
Fun fact: Rock Wrens construct walkways made of stones and other objects leading to their nests, although the purpose behind this behavior remains unknown. Additionally, Rock Wrens obtain the moisture they need exclusively from consuming insects and do not drink water.
3. Marsh Wren
Marsh Wrens are predominantly observed in Wyoming during the breeding season, accounting for 3% of the checklists submitted during summer. While many migrate south for the winter, a few individuals remain in the state year-round.
These wrens possess brown plumage with distinctive black and white streaks on their back. Their undersides exhibit a grayish-brown hue, and they possess the characteristic upright tail shared by wrens. Marsh Wrens lack striped shoulders and have longer bills compared to Sedge Wrens. Males and females appear identical.
Scientific name: Cistothorus palustris
Length: 3.9-5.5 in (10-14 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.5 oz (9-14 g)
Wingspan: 5.9 in (15 cm)
Marsh Wrens breed in northern US states and central Canada before migrating to southern states and Mexico. During migration, they can be observed in the eastern US.
To spot Marsh Wrens, explore wetlands where they cling to reeds, using each foot to grip different stalks. Their adept camouflage can make them challenging to locate, but their distinctive buzzy songs, particularly during dawn and dusk, can help in their identification.
Insects and spiders make up the primary diet of Marsh Wrens. They forage for these small creatures on leaves close to the water’s surface.
The song of the Marsh Wren is a unique, buzzy melody that can persist for up to 20 minutes.
Marsh Wrens construct fully enclosed nests, except for a small opening at the top. Their nests are intricately woven from reeds and grasses. Clutches consist of 3 to 10 eggs, which hatch after approximately two weeks. The chicks fledge within an additional two weeks.
Fun fact: Marsh Wrens have been known to construct up to twenty dummy nests attached to cattails. However, they usually utilize only one nest and destroy the eggs and nestlings of rival birds.
4. Canyon Wren
Canyon Wrens, though not particularly common, can be found in Wyoming throughout the year. These wrens exhibit a stocky build with brown plumage, white throats, and lighter barred tails. Their heads display a grayish-brown coloration with speckles. Notably, Canyon Wrens possess short, robust legs, which aid them in clinging to rocks. Male and female Canyon Wrens share similar appearances.
Scientific name: Catherpes mexicanus
Length: 4.5-6.1 in (11.4-15.4 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.7 oz (9.9-18.3 g)
Wingspan: 7.1-7.9 in (18-20 cm)
Canyon Wrens are primarily distributed across the western regions, ranging from southern British Columbia to Mexico. Unlike migratory wren species, Canyon Wrens remain in their habitats throughout the year.
When searching for Canyon Wrens, explore rocky areas similar to those inhabited by Rock Wrens. These wrens forage for insects and spiders concealed within crevices. Thanks to their short and sturdy legs, they can cling to rocks and even navigate vertical cliffs.
The song of the Canyon Wren is characterized by a descending melody that slows down, ending with a few raspy notes.
Canyon Wrens build their nests within crevices, constructing them using twigs and grasses while lining them with wool and feathers.
Fun fact: Canyon Wrens have been observed pilfering food from spiders’ webs and wasp nests.
5. Bewick’s Wren
Bewick’s Wrens, while not frequently spotted in Wyoming, are considered regularly occurring within the state. They can primarily be observed in the southern regions during the summer.
These wrens feature brown backs with long gray upright tails adorned with darker barring. They possess gray bellies and a white stripe extending over their eyes.
Scientific name: Thryomanes bewickii
Length: 5.1 in (13 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 oz (8-12 g)
Bewick’s Wrens reside in southern and western states year-round, with minor movements during winter.
To locate Bewick’s Wrens, explore scrublands, thickets, and open woodlands, where they can be seen hopping from branch to branch, frequently flicking their long tails. Their diet consists of insects, larvae, bees, bugs, caterpillars, and beetles.
The song of the Bewick’s Wren begins with a couple of short higher notes, followed by lower-pitched buzzy notes.
Bewick’s Wrens construct nests in various locations, such as trees, rock ledges, old woodpecker nests, or crevices in buildings. Their cup-shaped nests are built using sticks and grasses, with a soft lining. Clutches consist of 3 to 8 eggs, which hatch after approximately two weeks, and the chicks fledge within another two weeks.
Fun fact: Bewick’s Wrens have experienced population declines in the eastern US, likely due to competition from House Wrens, which may destroy their eggs.
6. Pacific Wren
Pacific Wrens are categorized as accidental species in Wyoming. However, there have been recent sightings around Lander in 2022.
These wrens exhibit brown plumage with darker barring on their wings, tail, and belly. They possess a paler eyebrow stripe and short, upright tails. Male and female Pacific Wrens share similar appearances.
Scientific name: Troglodytes pacificus
Length: 3.1-4.7 in (8-12 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 oz (8-12 g)
Wingspan: 4.7-6.3 in (12-16 cm)
Pacific Wrens are primarily found along the West Coast, ranging from Alaska to California. Coastal populations remain resident year-round, while those inland in Canada migrate south for the winter.
When searching for Pacific Wrens, explore forested areas where they remain hidden among fallen leaves and decaying logs. They feed on insects, spiders, flies, and bees.
The song of the Pacific Wren is a long, jumbled melody composed of fast, high-pitched notes, each rendition varying in pitch.
Pacific Wrens construct nests using twigs, moss, and grass woven into a round shape with a small opening. They lay 1 to 9 eggs, and hatching takes around two to two and a half weeks, followed by another two weeks until fledging.
Fun fact: Pacific Wrens often huddle together for warmth, with numerous individuals sharing a single cavity or nest box. There have been instances of over 30 individuals found together in a nest box.
7. Winter Wren
Winter Wrens are accidental species in Wyoming, with a few sightings reported in the southeastern part of the state.
These wrens have small, plump bodies with brown plumage and darker barring on their wings, tail, and belly. They possess a paler eyebrow stripe and short, upright tails. Males and females exhibit similar appearances.
Winter Wrens resemble Pacific Wrens closely and were once considered the same species. However, they are now recognized as separate species with distinct songs.
Scientific name: Troglodytes hiemalis
Length: 3.1-4.7 in (8-12 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.4 oz (8-12 g)
Wingspan: 4.7-6.3 in (12-16 cm)
Winter Wrens are found in winter throughout eastern US states, northeastern US states, and Canada during the summer.
When searching for Winter Wrens, explore tangled undergrowth in forests and backyards. They feed on insects and spiders by rummaging through fallen leaves and decaying bark.
The song of the Winter Wren is a long, bubbly, and sweet melody, slower in tempo compared to Pacific Wrens, lasting up to 10 seconds.
Winter Wrens construct nests using twigs, moss, and grass, woven into a round shape with a small opening. They lay 1 to 9 eggs, and hatching takes around two to two and a half weeks, followed by another two weeks until fledging.
Fun fact: Winter Wrens construct rounded nests with small openings, and these nests are sometimes found hanging from trees.
8. Sedge Wren
Sedge Wrens are accidental species in Wyoming, with the last recorded sightings dating back to 2017.
These wrens exhibit small brown bodies with darker streaks and barring on their upper parts and paler undersides. They possess a light eyebrow stripe. Males and females have similar appearances.
Sedge Wrens share similarities with Marsh Wrens and can be found in similar wet areas. However, Marsh Wrens lack striped shoulders and have lighter bellies.
Scientific name: Cistothorus stellaris
Length: 3.9-4.7 in (10-12 cm)
Weight: 0.3-0.3 oz (7-10 g)
Wingspan: 4.7-5.5 in (12-14 cm)
Sedge Wrens breed in southern Canada, the Midwest, and sometimes further east in the US. They migrate to spend winter in southeastern states and northern Mexico, near the Gulf and Atlantic coasts.
To locate Sedge Wrens, search in hidden wet grasslands, marshy areas, and meadows abundant in vegetation. They typically prefer shallower areas compared to Marsh Wrens and forage for insects and spiders.
The song of the Sedge Wren is simple, consisting of a few short notes followed by a series of rapid notes at a similar pitch.
Fun fact: Sedge Wrens are territorial and may puncture the eggs of neighboring Sedge Wrens, effectively destroying them.
9. Carolina Wren
Carolina Wrens are exceedingly rare and considered accidental species in Wyoming, with the last sighting reported in 2013.
These wrens display dark brown plumage on their upper parts and light brown undersides. They possess a white eyebrow stripe and upright tail.
Scientific name: Thryothorus ludovicianus
Length: 4.7-5.5 in (12-14 cm)
Weight: 0.6-0.8 oz (18-22 g)
Wingspan: 11.4 in (29 cm)
Carolina Wrens are year-round residents across eastern and southeastern states.
To locate Carolina Wrens, explore wooded areas or regions with dense vegetation, including backyard habitats. They feed on insects, spiders, as well as small reptiles and amphibians such as lizards, frogs, and snakes.
The song of the Carolina Wren consists of quick whistles, creating a very short melody.
Carolina Wrens construct nests primarily in trees, although they are adaptable and can utilize various natural or artificial locations. Their nests are often nearly circular, featuring a small opening on the side. They lay 3 to 7 eggs, with hatching occurring after approximately two weeks, and the chicks fledge within another two weeks.
Fun fact: Carolina Wrens form lifelong pairs, exhibiting strong fidelity to their chosen partners.
How to Attract Wrens to Your Backyard
To attract wrens to your backyard, consider implementing the following tips:
1. Maintain a natural environment by leaving fallen leaves, brush piles, and spider webs, as these provide habitats for insects and spiders, which are staple foods for wrens.
2. Provide clean water sources, preferably with running water, in multiple locations.
3. Offer suitable nesting sites, such as nest boxes or even old boots left out in the yard.
4. Supply wrens with food sources such as mealworms, crickets, peanut pieces, suet, and hulled sunflower seeds.
5. Plant native vegetation and create dense vegetation cover to attract wrens to your backyard. Consider installing nest boxes specifically designed for wrens.
How Frequently Wrens are Spotted in Summer and Winter in Wyoming
The frequency of wren sightings in Wyoming during summer and winter can be assessed through checklists submitted by birdwatchers on ebird. Here are the percentages of wren species spotted during the summer and winter seasons in Wyoming:
Wrens in Wyoming in Summer:
– House Wren: 13.8%
– Rock Wren: 3.6%
– Marsh Wren: 3.0%
– Canyon Wren: 0.5%
– Bewick’s Wren: 0.2%
– Pacific Wren: <0.1%
– Winter Wren: <0.1%
– Carolina Wren: <0.1%
– Sedge Wren: <0.1%
Wrens in Wyoming in Winter:
– Canyon Wren: 0.2%
– Marsh Wren: <0.1%
– Winter Wren: <
0.1%
– Pacific Wren: <0.1%
– Sedge Wren: <0.1%
– House Wren: <0.1%
– Rock Wren: <0.1%