Wildlife expert Sean McNemmy from Ark Wildlife has shared a few simple and effective ways to attract wrens to UK gardens throughout autumn. Wrens are among the most common garden birds in the UK, yet their shy nature means they are often heard before they are seen.
These tiny birds are valuable to gardeners because they feed on pests such as insects, spiders and other small bugs. Recognisable by their small, plump, round shape and chestnut-coloured tail, which is almost always raised, wrens are lively and constantly on the move, often searching for insects among fallen leaves and in the cracks of bark.
Creating the right habitat
According to McNemmy, the secret to attracting wrens is not feeders but creating the right habitat. Unlike many garden birds, wrens are not particularly attracted to seed feeders, peanuts or fat balls. They are pure insectivores, relying almost entirely on insects, small bugs and spiders for food.
“To attract wrens, think cover first. Dense shrubs, hedging and especially evergreen plants give them somewhere safe to hide, roost and nest. The more sheltered your garden feels, the more likely they are to stay,” he said.
Food sources and feeding tips
Planting a mix of foliage and flowering plants can also help attract wrens, as these encourage insects, which are the primary food wrens depend on. “Areas of low growth, leaf litter or even a quiet corner near a compost heap can quickly become feeding grounds,” McNemmy added.
For those hoping to spot wrens out in the open, the expert suggests offering mealworms. “Live is best, but even dried mealworms can provide a useful boost and may tempt them into view, if only for a moment,” he explained.
Water and nest boxes
Fresh water is also essential, particularly during warmer months. A shallow, sheltered water source gives wrens a safe place to drink and bathe. Wrens will also use nest boxes, especially if positioned low and well hidden within dense foliage, ideally two to four metres off the ground.
