Bewick’s Wren
Thryomanes bewickii
Bewick's Wrens are common and widespread residents throughout much of Oregon, found in a variety of habitats including dry brushy areas, chaparral, thickets in open country, and open woodlands, as well as in gardens and parks in suburban areas. They are known for their active foraging, often flicking their long tails, and for their varied and sometimes surprisingly loud songs.
When it comes to differentiating male and female Bewick's Wrens in Oregon, it's important to note that they are virtually indistinguishable by plumage. Both sexes look remarkably similar.
Overall Coloration: They are generally a subdued brown-and-gray wren. The back and wings are plain brown, and the underparts are grayish-white.
Distinctive White Eyebrow: A key field mark for Bewick's Wrens is their bold, long white stripe above the eye (supercilium), which contrasts with the rest of their head. This white eyebrow helps distinguish them from other plain brown wrens.
Tail: They have a relatively long tail that is often held upright and frequently flicked or fanned. The tail is barred with black, and the outer tail feathers have white tips or spots, especially visible when the tail is fanned. This white in the tail is a good distinguishing feature from a Carolina Wren, for example.
Bill: They possess a long, slender, and slightly downcurved bill.
How to Differentiate Male and Female Bewick's Wrens (Behavioral Differences):
1. Song: This is the most reliable method. Only the male Bewick's Wren sings its characteristic, often complex, and loud song. The song is typically a series of clear, sweet notes followed by a buzzy trill or jumbled notes. Males have a repertoire of multiple song variations. They sing vigorously to defend their territory and attract a mate. Females make various calls (including scolding calls), but they do not sing the elaborate territorial song.
2. Nest Building: During the breeding season, the male often starts building several "dummy" nests in various cavities (tree hollows, old woodpecker holes, nest boxes, or other suitable crevices). The female then selects one of these sites and completes the nest by adding a softer lining of moss, leaves, animal hair, and feathers.
3. Incubation: The female alone incubates the eggs (typically 5-7). The male will often feed her while she is incubating.
4. Parental Care: Both parents participate in feeding the young after they hatch.
When it comes to differentiating male and female Bewick's Wrens in Oregon, it's important to note that they are virtually indistinguishable by plumage. Both sexes look remarkably similar.
Overall Coloration: They are generally a subdued brown-and-gray wren. The back and wings are plain brown, and the underparts are grayish-white.
Distinctive White Eyebrow: A key field mark for Bewick's Wrens is their bold, long white stripe above the eye (supercilium), which contrasts with the rest of their head. This white eyebrow helps distinguish them from other plain brown wrens.
Tail: They have a relatively long tail that is often held upright and frequently flicked or fanned. The tail is barred with black, and the outer tail feathers have white tips or spots, especially visible when the tail is fanned. This white in the tail is a good distinguishing feature from a Carolina Wren, for example.
Bill: They possess a long, slender, and slightly downcurved bill.
How to Differentiate Male and Female Bewick's Wrens (Behavioral Differences):
1. Song: This is the most reliable method. Only the male Bewick's Wren sings its characteristic, often complex, and loud song. The song is typically a series of clear, sweet notes followed by a buzzy trill or jumbled notes. Males have a repertoire of multiple song variations. They sing vigorously to defend their territory and attract a mate. Females make various calls (including scolding calls), but they do not sing the elaborate territorial song.
2. Nest Building: During the breeding season, the male often starts building several "dummy" nests in various cavities (tree hollows, old woodpecker holes, nest boxes, or other suitable crevices). The female then selects one of these sites and completes the nest by adding a softer lining of moss, leaves, animal hair, and feathers.
3. Incubation: The female alone incubates the eggs (typically 5-7). The male will often feed her while she is incubating.
4. Parental Care: Both parents participate in feeding the young after they hatch.