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Carolina Wren Identification

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The Four Keys to ID

  • Size & Shape

    The Carolina Wren is a small but chunky bird with a round body and a long tail that it often cocks upward. The head is large with very little neck, and the distinctive bill marks it as a wren: long, slender, and downcurved.

    Relative Size

    slightly smaller than sparrows; slightly larger than a House Wren

    Relative Sizesparrow or smallersparrow-sized or smaller

    Measurements
    • Both Sexes
      • Length: 4.7-5.5 in (12-14 cm)
      • Weight: 0.6-0.8 oz (18-22 g)
      • Wingspan: 11.4 in (29 cm)

Regional Differences

The Florida population of Carolina Wrens is larger and stouter, a darker rusty chestnut above and more deeply colored below.