Energetically Curious. That’s how I would best describe one of my favorite songbirds-the Carolina Wren. These cinnamon-colored wrens with a long, white eyebrow are common year-round residents in the East. They can be found in a variety of habitats, including woodlots, backyards, parks and even wetlands, but always near, or in, thick brush. Growing up in Pennsylvania, these were very uncommon birds, and difficult to find. But, over the years the Carolina Wren’s range has steadily expanded north, especially with more mild winters.

One of the coolest things I like about this active, little bird is its constant curiosity. It seems as if no nook or cranny is off limits, as it searches for small insects and fruit. At our home in Virginia, they dart around our back deck, woodpile and shed. They pick suet from the feeders and take baths in the water that collects on the picnic table. Their snooping has even brought them into our house through a back door or garage door that’s been left open. Even at my workplace, there’s a pair that somehow find their way into our small shop, hopping around the rafters, along the floor and in and out of the shelves. Don’t get me wrong, I’m pleasantly surprised to see them, but it’s sometimes a bit challenging getting them out!

Another feature of the Carolina Wren I enjoy is their song. Although they may have several variations, one of their common vocalizations is a 2-syllable song described as “cheery, cheery, cheery, cheery, cheery.” (click below to hear the song of the Carolina Wren) Sometimes, their song changes to a 3-syllable verse, described as “tea-kett-le, tea-kett-le, tea-kett-le.”

They’re also one of the few songbirds that will sing all year-round. I’m lucky to have a job that allows me to work in the great outdoors, and it’s refreshing to come in on a cold, dreary winter day and see a robust little, brown bird sitting on the fence loudly ringing its loud, bubbly song. Sing on Sweet Carolina Wren, sing on!