Sedge Wren
NameSedge Wren
Common NameSedge Wren
Scientific NameCistothorus platensis
FamilyTroglodytidae
Wingspan (cm)13
Length (cm)11
Weight (g)9
Plumage DetailsUpperparts are streaky brown with a buffy wash, especially on the flanks. The crown is dark with fine streaking, and there is a pale eyebrow. Underparts are whitish to buffy. The short tail is often cocked and barred with dark brown.
Vocalization / CallIts song is a dry, mechanical, chattering trill, often described as 'chip-chip-chip-sputter-sputter-sputter.' It also gives sharp 'chip' calls.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatswetland, grassland
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across central and eastern North America, migrating to the southern U.S. and Mexico for winter. A distinct subspecies complex also resides year-round in South America.
Identifying Featuressmall size, streaky brown plumage, short, cocked tail, pale eyebrow, chattering song, prefers wet grasslands/sedge meadows
Description
The Sedge Wren is a small, secretive songbird typically found in wet grasslands and sedge meadows. It is characterized by its streaky brown plumage and often holds its short tail cocked upright. This species is more often heard than seen, hiding deep within dense vegetation.
