House Wren

The house wren is one of the most common birds in North America, and it's knows to build its nest in some unusual places. Learn how to attract a house wren to your yard, and listen to its song.

House Wren
Photo: Roland Jordahl

House Wren map
    • Scientific Name: Troglodytes aedon.
    • Family: Wren.
    • Length: 4-3/4 inches.
    • Wingspan: 6 inches.
    • Distinctive Markings: Brown body with narrow dark bars on wing and tail.
    • Nest: Six or seven speckled-white eggs in a nest of twigs. Male builds multiple "dummy" nests, and then female chooses one.
    • Song: Varies; rapid rolling trill that rises and then descends into a bubbling song.
    • Habitat: Backyards, parks and open woods.
    • Diet: Insects.
    • Backyard Favorites: Birdhouses with 1-1/8-inch entrance holes.

    Listen to this bird’s song