Winter Wren
NameWinter Wren
Common NameWinter Wren
Scientific NameTroglodytes hiemalis
FamilyTroglodytidae
Wingspan (cm)12.5
Length (cm)9
Weight (g)10
Plumage DetailsOverall rich brown plumage, darker on the back and crown, with fine dark barring on the flanks, belly, and undertail coverts. A faint pale supercilium (eyebrow stripe) is often visible, and the short tail is also barred.
Vocalization / CallFamous for its incredibly long, complex, and rapid series of high-pitched trills and warbles, often lasting 5-10 seconds. Calls include sharp 'chip' notes and buzzy 'dzzt' sounds.
Primary Dietinsectivore
Primary Habitatsdense coniferous forest, mixed forest, ravines, stream banks, tangled undergrowth
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across Canada and the northern United States, extending south in the Appalachian Mountains. Winters in the southern parts of its breeding range and further south into the southeastern U.S.
Identifying Featuresvery small, plump body, short, often cocked tail, overall dark brown plumage with fine barring, pale supercilium, active, mouse-like movements in dense cover
Description
The Winter Wren is a tiny, plump, dark brown bird with a very short, often cocked tail. It is known for its secretive nature, often foraging in dense undergrowth, and its remarkably loud and complex song for its size.
