Ornithologists recognize eight Eurasian Wren subspecies groups: the widespread “Eurasian” group, occurring from Western Europe to Japan; the “British” group, found in the United Kingdom and Ireland; the “Iceland” group, found only on Iceland; the “Faeroe” group, found only on the Faroe Islands; and four groups—“Shetland,” “Hebridean,” “Fair Isle,” and “St. Kilda”—found on islands off the coast of Scotland. These subspecies groups differ primarily in coloration, size, and the amount of barring on the underparts. Birds in the “Iceland” group are largest, with a somewhat heavier bill.
Identification
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Tiny brown bird that often holds its short little tail cocked up. Often sings from a fairly exposed perch, but at other times rather mouselike, creeping in brambles and understory. As such, can be quite inconspicuous. Favors wooded areas with a dense understory, as well as gardens, hedges in farmland, heathland, and coastal cliffs. Heard much more than seen: song is loud, bright, and musical, a varied series of trills and ringing warbles, repeated. Chipping calls can also give away its presence.
Relative Size
One of Europe’s smallest birds. Slightly larger than Goldcrest and smaller than Great Tit.
sparrow-sized or smallerMeasurements
- Both Sexes
- Length: 3.5-3.9 in (9-10 cm)
- Weight: 0.2-0.4 oz (6-12 g)
