Marsh Wren

As their name suggests, Marsh Wrens build nests in wetlands like marshes near water. I first heard them in a cattail stand by the Fraser River. I sat on a log for a long time but didn’t see any. I only heard their sounds. They often make a short call followed by a ‘chk-chk-chk’ sound, like a card reader.

Studies show that their songs vary a lot. Eastern and western groups sing very differently. Only male birds sing.

These birds eat small insects in wetlands. They usually hunt near the water’s surface, which makes them hard to see. Many birds living on the coast stay all year. Those living inland often move to warmer places in winter.