Sedge Wren

Cistothorus platensis

A shy resident of damp meadows and grasses.  The Marsh Wren is a close relative, but is normally found in deeper-water marshes than is the Sedge Wren.  Sedge Wrens generally stay well hidden, generally coming into view only when singing.  Like some other Wrens, the male builds many dummy nests, only completing the one that the female selects. 

Habitat: Grassy marshes, wet meadows, lush grassy fields.  Not found in deeper-water marshes like the Marsh Wren, prefers shallow-water marshes or lush dryland fields.

Diet: Mostly insects. 

Behavior: Primarily forages on the ground or very low in the vegetation, clambering around in search of insects.  Generally stays well hidden, although males will make themselves quite visible when in song.

Nesting: June and July

Breeding Map: Breeding Bird Survey map

Song: Bold staccato notes followed by a rapid trill.

Migration: Neotropical migrant, summering in the Midwest, eastern Great Plains, and south-central Canada.  Winters along U.S. Gulf coast and points south.

Similar Species: Marsh Wren

Status: Has shown a general decline over the last few decades.

Further Information: 1) USGS Patuxent Bird Identification InfoCenter, Sedge Wren

2) Cornell Lab of Ornithology - Sedge Wren

3) eNature.com: Sedge Wren

Photo Information: July 28th, 2006 -- Northwest of Sioux Falls in Minnehaha County -- Terry Sohl

Additional Photos: Click on the image chips or text links below for additional, higher-resolution Sedge Wren photos.