The wren is common in the United States and Canada and is known for populating urban areas.
The wren is one of the most common songbirds in North America. Wrens are small and round, and are one of the easiest birds to attract to a birdhouse in an urban area. Wrens generally nest in small holes (natural, man-made or created by other birds), and are extremely aggressive about their nesting territories. Man-made wren houses are characterized by their small doorways that are mounted close to the top of the birdhouse.
Wren Basics
The name "wren" applies to about 60 species of birds, most of which are found in North America. Generally, wrens are short and round, with brown, gray, brown-red and white feathers. Wrens appear similar to sparrows. Differences include a wren's longer, thinner beak and its tendency to perch with their tails straight up in the air. Wrens are insect-eating birds and are especially helpful in keeping the insect population down in temperate urban areas. In North America, wrens typically travel in pairs and perch and sing together.
Nesting Habits
Wrens typically reside in holes with small openings, so predators cannot gain access to their nests. Most wrens nest in natural cavities, including cacti, rock crevices and vacated woodpecker holes. In urban areas, house wrens (the term used for the species that live in most of the United States and Canada) will live in man-made boxes. If pressed for a place to nest, wrens also live in flower pots, shoes and tin cans.
Difference Between Wren Houses and Other Birdhouses
All species of birds have specific preferences when choosing nesting areas. These preferences are based on a bird's size, natural habitat, and height at which they feel most comfortable roosting. According to Wild Bird Watching, a wren house should have a 4-inch by 4-inch floor and stand between 6 and 8 inches tall. The "door" should be 4 to 6 inches above the floor of the house, and the doorway should be about 1 1/2 inches wide. These houses should be mounted between 5 and 10 feet in the air.
Contents of a Wren House
A homemade wren house must be cleaned out annually so new wrens can move in. Wrens are known for their eccentric taste in nesting materials. When the female wren is ready to lay her eggs, the male fills the bottom of the nest with dry sticks. The female then adds to this foundation by choosing softer materials (moss, trash, feathers and lint are common) for the top of the nest.
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