Feeding Wrens

[demicav]

I've noticed this year there are quite a few Wrens about, mainly in the trees at the back of the house although I sometimes see them at the front. This is the first time I've noticed them in the area and I've now come to easily recognize their song which I hear through the day, especially in the morning. Just a few minutes ago I went into the kitchen and there was one perched outside on the fence very close to me and I know they do pass through the garden BUT they never visit my feeders. I put out peanuts and a mixed seed feed as well as fat balls, I'm guessing though that maybe the Wrens want something a little different. They're around all the time so I think they've been breeding in the area. Can anyone advise me on what food they do like to eat ??

[ogwen]

Hiya demicav, you could try putting out live mealworms? We get some from our local pet shop at a reasonable price, the robins love them, and im sure wrens would too as they mainly eat insects. I haven't seen any in the garden yet but they are naturally shy birds and our garden is full of bushes they can hide in til we disappear so hopefully one day - although I have heard them near by....

Anyway hope that helps

[Bad bird watcher]

Grated cheese? never tried it myself as I don't get any but I'm sure I've read it somewhere. Anyway the blackbirds love it!

[demicav]

Thank you both for the suggestions, I will give them a try.

[Gill Catton]

I must admit my first thought is why not help them to feed themselves? They are insectivores so what about some bee houses or ladybird homes that sort of thing. Plant things that attract lots of insects - perhaps some roses that you donate to the aphids (the birds in my garden love them) and of course a pond, I can't remember if you already have one?

You'd be providing a 'pick your own' instead of a fast food restaurant

[demicav]

Originally Posted by Gill Catton

I must admit my first thought is why not help them to feed themselves? They are insectivores so what about some bee houses or ladybird homes that sort of thing. Plant things that attract lots of insects - perhaps some roses that you donate to the aphids (the birds in my garden love them) and of course a pond, I can't remember if you already have one?

You'd be providing a 'pick your own' instead of a fast food restaurant

Good ideas there Gill, I wasn't really sure what they ate to be honest. I am planning some bug boxes, well someone is making them for me. My garden exists for the wildlife so the more bugs the better. I don't have a pond but would love one. I hear it's one of the best things you can do for wildlife. I'm going to wait for my youngest child to age a bit first, she has a way of finding accidents bless her .