The Carolina wren is the state bird of South Carolina, known for its small size, preference for warm climates, and insect-based diet. They mate for life and build nests in bushes or trees. The female lays 3-7 eggs and the young birds fly at about two weeks old. The wren replaced the thrush as the state bird in 1948.
The state bird of South Carolina is the Carolina wren, as officially designated in 1948. The Carolina wren is a smallish songbird usually averaging 4.7 to 5.5 inches (12 to 14 centimeters) in length. and weighs about 0.6 to 0.8 ounces (18 to 22 grams). These birds are typically found throughout the southeastern United States and parts of Central America. The South Carolina state bird usually feeds on insects and spiders and prefers to nest in bushes, vines, or trees about 10 feet (3.05 meters) off the ground. These birds generally mate for life and will spend much of their time together after mating.
The Carolina wren often prefers a wooded habitat, especially one with plenty of undergrowth. They have also been known to thrive in cultivated areas and swamps. These birds are very sensitive to cold temperatures and therefore are generally only found in warm southern climates. Unlike other wren species, only the male Carolina wren is believed to sing.
These birds usually survive on a diet composed largely of insects. Cockroaches, moths and caterpillars are believed to be some of their favorite foods. They have also been known to eat seeds. The Carolina wren often feeds on the ground, typically selecting fallen leaves with its bill. It is also known to snatch insects from crevices in tree trunks and branches.
The Carolina wren’s nest is usually mostly enclosed, with an entrance to one side. The South Carolina state bird is known to take advantage of man-made nesting habitats, but it will also build its nests in trees and bushes. Nests usually consist of leaves, grass, feathers, hair, and strips of bark. Fragments of string, as well as shreds of plastic or paper, have also been found in the Carolina wren’s nests.
The female Carolina wren generally lays three to seven eggs at one time. These eggs are usually whitish and mottled with brown. The eggs typically hatch after an incubation period of 12-16 days. Young birds typically begin flying at about two weeks of age.
Prior to the designation of the Carolina wren as the state bird of South Carolina, the thrush enjoyed a brief stint as the officially designated bird symbol of South Carolina, from 1939 to 1948. Many people, however, believed that the wren of Carolina was more representative of the state’s avian fauna, so the thrush was eventually replaced.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
