Carolina Wren
(Thryothorus ludoviciantus)

Typically associated with the South, the Carolina Wren eased its way north when warmer winter temperatures became the rule as opposed to the exception. Today, Carolina Wrens can be seen just over the southern borders of New York State.

Carolina Wrens are extremely susceptible to harsh winters and their populations will crash-as they did in 1977 and 1992-when winter temperatures are extremely low and snowfall is heavy. Fortunately, Carolina Wrens are resilient, and their populations bounce back within a few years. Carolina Wrens eat insects and spiders, for the most part, either on or near the ground in areas close to moderate and heavy undergrowth. Suet, however, attracts these birds to feeders.

At 5.5 inches in length, this medium-sized wren has a sooty gray bill and flesh-colored feet. The crown is rusty brown. A distinct white superciliary line, which is bordered above by a fine black line, extends past the eye to the nape. A wide, rusty brown postocular stripe extends through the eye to the neck. The chin, throat, and lower cheeks are white. The upperparts of the Carolina Wren are rusty brown; the rump and tail are slightly brighter. The underparts are cinnamon colored, except for the white undertail coverts.