A remarkable little bird that sometimes visits feeders, the Carolina Wren can be seen fairly frequently under the right conditions. This little dynamo appears to have excess energy and likes dense brushy tangles within the woods or riparian areas. Its call and song repertoire features many unusual sounds that many do not associate with only one species. From personal experience, there are approximately thirty calls and songs that are associated with this wren.
Most common year round in the southeastern part of the country, this energetic bird finds some of the most unusual locations to build a nest. It has been known to use cavities, spring wreaths, laundry on the line, planters, forgotten hats in sheds, a rubber boot, and even inside grills. Its creative locations for nesting either provide complete privacy or it sticks out like a sore thumb. Either way, the Carolina Wren will provide hours of unusual entertainment and an appropriate study subject for the budding ornithologist.
Juvenile Carolina Wren
(note lack of orange-buff wash
on breast, belly, flanks)
This bird is not as shy as one would think, as it will even join other species in raising an alarm for intruders. Being in the right place at the correct time, a cat was observed prowling and on the hunt for unsuspecting protein. A Northern Cardinal first began the alarm call, was joined by another bird that I cannot recall, and the third hero was a Carolina Wren. Watching this with complete fascination, I also became the fourth participant with a pishing call. The cat was so dismayed with the unwanted attention, it disappeared into the tall grass on the water side of a local lake. All parties victorious, they didn't mind my presence in the least until they became comfortable again. They soon went their separate ways to continue their quest for sustenance.
Adult Carolina Wren
The Carolina Wren is a known victim of Brown-headed Cowbird parasitism, especially in April.
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