Bewick's Wren

The Bewick's Wren is the most common backyard wren of the Vancouver area, and
like most wrens, it cocks its tail over its back, displaying bold brown-and-white bar-
ring. It utters a series of clear, sharp notes, often preceded by a buzzy rasp. If there is
an intruder nearby, the Bewick's Wren will alert other birds by boldly approaching the
stranger and scolding noisily. An effective way of attracting this songbird, and many
others, is by "squeaking" with a kissing or "pishing» sound to simulate a bird in dis-
tress. Once you have perfected your technique, you may occasionally find yourself
surrounded by large numbers of curious and agitated birds, many of which you had
no idea were nearby.
Nest sites selected by this insect-eater can be bizarre and imaginative. Old jars or bas-
kets tucked away at the back of a shed, electrical fuse boxes and even abandoned
wasps' nests may be used to raise young. Most often, though, a natural cavity in a tree
or a small nest box will be used.

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