The Pacific wren is a very small North American bird and a member of the mainly New World wren family Troglodytidae. It was once lumped with Troglodytes hiemalis of eastern North America and Troglodytes troglodytes of Eurasia as the winter wren.
Region
Western North America
Typical Environment
Found from coastal Alaska and British Columbia south through the Pacific Coast into California, and inland in montane forests of the Rockies and Sierra Nevada. It favors dense, moist coniferous forests, especially with abundant downed logs, root tangles, and thick understory. Also occurs along shaded streams, in riparian thickets, and occasionally in brushy parks during winter. In winter it may descend to lower elevations and denser coastal scrub.
Altitude Range
Sea level to 2800 m
Climate Zone
Temperate
Ease of Keeping
Beginner friendly: 1/5
One of North America’s smallest songbirds, the Pacific wren carries its tail cocked and delivers an exceptionally long, bubbly song that far exceeds its size. It was formerly lumped with the eastern Winter Wren and the Eurasian Wren but is now recognized as a distinct species. Males often build multiple ‘dummy’ nests, with females selecting and lining the final nest site.
Pacific wren calling
Temperament
secretive and energetic
Flight Pattern
short rapid wingbeats, low and darting through dense cover
Social Behavior
Typically solitary or in pairs during breeding; males defend small territories with vigorous song. Males construct multiple nests; the female selects one to line and use for eggs. Outside the breeding season, small communal roosts may form in cavities or dense vegetation during cold spells.
Migratory Pattern
Partial migrant
Song Description
A long, rapid cascade of trills and tinkling notes delivered with impressive volume for such a small bird. Calls include sharp ticks and dry chatters given from low perches in dense cover.
