Sept. 26, 2025: In the fall, Northern House Wrens look plain gray-brown with fine barring and no bold facial markings, contrasting with the richer reddish-brown plumage and white eyebrow of Carolina Wrens. This House Wren was recently seen on a fence post at Peterson Farm.

On Cape Cod in September, Northern House Wrens and Carolina Wrens can be told apart by some clear plumage differences, even though both are small, active, brown wrens:

Northern House Wren: Drab and subdued, with gray-brown upperparts and a pale grayish or buff underside. It lacks any bold face pattern—no strong eyebrow. Wings and tail show fine, even barring, giving a faintly speckled look. Overall, its appearance is plain and inconspicuous.

Carolina Wren: Richer in color, with warm reddish-brown upperparts, buffy-orange underparts, and a bold white eyebrow (supercilium) from bill to nape. Wings and tail show subtle barring, creating a brighter, more contrasting look.

In short: Northern House Wrens appear cooler brown, plainer, and less distinct, while Carolina Wrens look warmer, richer, and more boldly marked with a striking white eyebrow.