ExploreBirds

Northern House Wren

Troglodytes aedon

The Northern House Wren is a small, cheerful bird that loves to sing! They build their nests in cozy places like birdhouses and tree holes, making them fun to watch.

Habitat: Urban areas

Appearance

The Northern House Wren is a tiny, active bird with dull brown plumage over most of its body, often appearing grayish on the underside. It has faint barring on its wings and tail, a short, slightly upturned tail, and a slender, dark bill. This plain appearance helps it blend into its natural environment.

KingdomAnimaliaPhylumChordataClassAvesOrderPasseriformesFamilyTroglodytidaeGenusTroglodytes
Northern House Wren
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Northern House Wren

Category

Birds

Rarity

Common

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Snaps

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Interesting facts

A male wren might build several 'dummy' nests for a female to choose her favorite from!

Despite their small size, these wrens often chase away much bigger birds from their territory.

House Wrens often reuse birdhouses or abandoned nests from other species to raise their families.

Their scientific name, 'Troglodytes', means 'cave-dweller,' referring to their love for cavities.

Special abilities

Ability

Super Sonic Song

Northern House Wrens have a complex, bubbly song that helps them defend territory and attract mates.

Ability

Nesting Nuisance

Northern House Wrens can fill cavities with twigs, sometimes preventing other birds from nesting there.

Ability

Insect Inspector

Northern House Wrens can deftly forage for insects in dense vegetation, helping control pest populations.

Measurements & details

Length
11-13 cm
Wingspan
12-18 cm
Weight
0.01-0.012 kg
Lifespan
2-7 years
Top Speed
35 km/h
Clutch Size
3-10
Incubation
12-15 days
Migration Distance
1500 km

Diet & Feeding

These small birds are amazing insect hunters, snatching up tiny bugs to eat!

Primary Foods

  • Beetles
  • Spiders
  • Caterpillars
  • Grasshoppers
  • Ants
  • Flies

Foraging Method

  • Foraging

Ecological connections

eaten by

Domestic Cat

Felis catus

House wrens are common prey for cats.

eaten by

Common Garter Snake

Thamnophis sirtalis

Snakes can raid nests, eating eggs or chicks.

hunts

European Garden Spider

Araneus diadematus

Wrens actively hunt various spider species.

hunts

Tobacco Hornworm

Manduca sexta

Caterpillars are a main food source, especially for young.

Traits

Also known as

No aliases listed yet.

Collections

Safety

Danger

1/5 · Very low

Enjoy watching birds from a distance and don't disturb their nests.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is Northern House Wren?

11-13 cm

What is Northern House Wren's wingspan?

12-18 cm

How much does Northern House Wren weigh?

0.01-0.012 kg

How long does Northern House Wren live?

2-7 years

How fast can Northern House Wren move?

35 km/h

What does Northern House Wren eat?

These small birds are amazing insect hunters, snatching up tiny bugs to eat!

Where is Northern House Wren usually found?

Urban areas

How does Northern House Wren hunt?

Foraging

Snap Map

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Where to spot

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