Bird Guide

Bewick's Wren vs Eurasian Wren

Bewick's Wren (Thryomanes bewickii)

Bewick's Wren

Thryomanes bewickii

Tiny10 gShrubland

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.

ID text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0

Recording: Jonathon Jongsma · CC BY-SA 3.0
Photo: Missvain · CC BY 4.0
Eurasian Wren (Troglodytes troglodytes)

Eurasian Wren

Troglodytes troglodytes

Tiny10 gForest

The Eurasian wren is a plump, sturdy bird with rounded wings and a short tail, which is usually held cocked up. It is 9 to 10 cm (3.5 to 3.9 in) in length and has a wingspan of 13–17 cm (5.1–6.7 in). It weighs around 10 g (0.35 oz). It is rufous brown above, greyer beneath, and indistinctly barred with darker brown and grey, even on the wings and tail. The bill is dark brown and the legs are pale brown, the feet having strong claws and a large hind toe. Young birds are less distinctly barred and have mottled underparts.

ID text from Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 4.0

Recording: Philippe_Grange · CC0
Photo: Christophe · CC BY 4.0

Where you might meet both

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Photos and recordings are credited to their authors under the licence shown. Full profiles: Bewick's Wren and Eurasian Wren.