Wren

Description:

The Wren, or Troglodytes troglodytes, is a small and energetic bird found widely throughout Ireland. It is typically brown in color and has a light belly with streaky brown upperparts. This bird is unmistakable due to its dumpy body and short tail. They have a distinctive curved beak and rounded wings.

What They Eat:

Wrens are insectivorous and their diet consists mainly of spiders, beetles, and other small insects. They are particularly fond of caterpillars and will consume large numbers of them throughout the breeding season.

Habitat:

Wrens are found in a variety of habitats and are particularly fond of woodland edges, parks, and gardens. They build nests in dense vegetation or cavities in trees and are known to use old bird boxes for nesting.

Size and Wingspan:

Wrens are small birds with a body length of only 9-10 cm and a wingspan of 13-17 cm. They weigh just 10-12 grams, making them one of the smallest bird species in Ireland.

Male Female Difference:

There is no noticeable difference between males and females.

Where to Find:

Wrens are widely distributed throughout Ireland and can be found in almost any location with bushes, shrubs or trees. You are most likely to find them close to woodland or hedgerow areas.

What Months Can be Found in Ireland:

Wrens can be found in Ireland all year round, making them one of the few bird species that can be seen in every season. Despite this, they are most active during the breeding season from April to July.

Interesting Note:

The Wren is a significant bird in Irish folklore and is often associated with the winter solstice or St. Stephen's Day. In ancient times, it was believed that the King of Birds would be the bird that could fly the highest, and the Wren was known as the 'King of Birds'. It went on to become a symbol of rebellion, and throughout history, people would go 'hunting the Wren' on St. Stephen's Day. This tradition still survives in some parts of Ireland today.