Bird Guide

Bewick's Wren

Thryomanes bewickii

Least ConcernInvertebratesShrublandCavity nestTiny · 10 g

About the Bewick's Wren

Bewick's wren is a wren native to North America. It is the only species placed in the genus Thryomanes. At about 14 cm (5.5 in) long, it is grey-brown above, white below, with a long white eyebrow. While similar in appearance to the Carolina wren, it has a long tail that is tipped in white. The song is loud and melodious, much like the song of other wrens. It lives in thickets, brush piles and hedgerows, open woodlands and scrubby areas, often near streams. It eats insects and spiders, which it gleans from vegetation or finds on the ground.

Text adapted from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

ID tip

Bewick's wren has an average length of 13 cm (5.1 in) an average weight of 8–12 g (0.28–0.42 oz), and a wingspan of 18 cm (7.1 in). Its plumage is brown on top and light grey underneath, with a white stripe above each eye. Its beak is long, slender, and slightly curved. Its most distinctive feature is its long tail with black bars and white corners. It moves its tail around frequently, making this feature even more obvious for observers. Juveniles look similar to adults, with only a few key differences. Their beaks are usually shorter and stockier. Voice: Bewick's wrens, like many wrens, are very vocal. Both females and males make short calls while foraging and both use a harsh scolding call when agitated. Males also sing in order to attract mates and protect their territory.

Text from Wikipedia, licensed CC BY-SA 4.0.

What the Bewick's Wren sounds like

Recording: Jonathon Jongsma · CC BY-SA 3.0 · via xeno-canto
Recording: J. R. · CC BY-SA 4.0 · via xeno-canto
Recording: Jonathon Jongsma · CC BY-SA 3.0 · via xeno-canto

Where the Bewick's Wren lives

Regular range

When to see the Bewick's Wren

Peak activity in April · a resident species across most of its range

Easily confused with

Side by side: Bewick's Wren vs Carolina Wren · Bewick's Wren vs Eurasian Wren · Bewick's Wren vs Marsh Wren

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