Species of the Month: Wren
Wren © Andy Rouse/ 2020VISION
Help us with our wildlife surveys
Our Species of the Month species surveys are an important way you can help us. Records are sent to DERC (Dorset Environmental Records Centre) who collate this information to build up a picture of the of the state of Dorset's wildlife. So please help us help wildlife by filling in the form below. Thank you!
December Species of the Month: Wren
Scientific Name: Troglodytes troglodytes
Identification
A small bird, with a round body, brown plumage and a signature cocked tail. Despite its small size the wren has a disproportionately loud call!
Wren © Andy Rouse/ 2020VISION
Diet:
Insects & spiders.
Behaviour
The loud song is used by males to demonstrate ‘fitness’ when defending territory.
Did you know?
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Wrens are vulnerable in cold winters due to a combination of their small size and fewer insects available to eat.
Research has found that wrens in eastern Scotland are 5% larger than those from the warmer south west of England. Larger birds have the potential to carry more body fat and may have a ‘thermal advantage’ in cold winters.
Where can they be found?
It is the UK’s most common breeding bird and is resident all year. It is found in a variety of habitats where there is good cover and is most frequently found in deciduous woodland. Wrens will regularly visit gardens.
Wildlife gardening tips
Avoid using pesticides as these will kill many of the insects which wrens & other birds depend upon. Don’t ‘tidy’ borders until the spring as this will provide shelter for insects which, during the winter, can be foraged by wrens.
Grow dense hedges or shrubs where wrens can shelter & forage.
Species of the Month sightings form
Your details will only be used by Dorset Wildlife Trust and we will never give your information to other organisations to use for their own purposes. You can change your communications preference at any time by contacting us on 01202 692033. When you have completed the form, please click the Send button.
