• Skip to Content
  • Skip to Main Navigation
  • Skip to Local Navigation
  • Skip to Search
  • Skip to Sitemap
  • Skip to Footer

Marsh Wren

Cistothorus palustris ORDER: PASSERIFORMES FAMILY: TROGLODYTIDAE

IUCN Conservation Status: Least Concern

A common and noisy inhabitant of cattail marshes, the Marsh Wren sings all day and throughout the night.

Appearance

Wrens
Wrens
Typical Voice

Adult Description

  • Small brown bird with thin bill.
  • Tail often held upright.
  • Dark cap.
  • Whitish eyeline.
  • Bold black-and-white streaks on back.
  • Buffy flanks, whitish chest.

Immature Description

Juvenile similar to adult, but lacks bold streaking on back and has only an indistinct eyestripe.

Range Map Help

Marsh Wren Range Map
View dynamic map of eBird sightings

Field MarksHelp

Similar Species

  • Sedge Wren has similar streaks on back, but is paler, has a paler, streaked crown, and has a less distinct eyestripe.

    ×

    Search

    Or Browse Bird Guide by Family, Name or Shape
    ×
    bird image Blue-winged Warbler by Brian Sullivan

    Receive bird news, tips, and information about Lab projects.

    The Cornell Lab will send you updates about birds, birding, and opportunities to help bird conservation. You can unsubscribe at any time. We will never sell or give your email address to others.

    ×

    What is your favorite species?

    The Cornell Lab will send you updates about birds, birding, and opportunities to help bird conservation. You can unsubscribe at any time. We will never sell or give your email address to others.