More often than not, marsh wrens are heard before they are seen—if they’re seen at all. Unlike their close counterpart the sedge wren, marsh wrens prefer to build their nests and live within the cattails and bulrush—common marsh grasses. Commonly confused with sedge wrens, marsh wrens have larger bodies, longer bills, a prominent white eyebrow […]
Formerly called the short-billed marsh wren, the sedge wren nests in thick, tangled areas of sedges and grasses in overgrown fields, near ponds and lakes, and in marshes—but not cattails. Characteristics that distinguish sedge wrens from other wren species include its habitat preferences; its size; its short, thin bill; and its distinctive song. Look for
Look For Our largest wren, the cactus wren is sometimes mistaken for a thrasher. The bold white eyebrow stands out below the dark brown cap. Dark spots below (especially on breast), white streaks above, buffy flanks. Long tail is edged in black and white dashes. Listen For Song is a series of harsh, unmusical notes:
Look For Rusty brown body and grayish head contrast sharply with white throat and breast. Bill is very long, slender, and slightly down-curved. Small white dots on head, back, and wings are visible at close range. The canyon wren is usually heard before it is seen. Listen For The canyon wren is a strong singer,
