Wren: A Biography

Stephan Moss, the bestselling author of "The Robin: A Biography," has written a new book called "The Wren: A Year in the Life of a Bird." The wren is Britain's most common bird, with 8.5 million breeding pairs and the loudest song in proportion to its size. It is found in various habitats throughout Britain and Ireland, from small city gardens to remote offshore islands. Despite its popularity, many people are not aware of its presence. The book explores the wren's history, culture, and behavior, featuring beautiful illustrations throughout.

Format: Hardback
Length: 208 pages
Publication date: 25 October 2018
Publisher: Vintage Publishing

The wren, a fascinating avian paradox, holds a unique place in British avian ecology. With an estimated 8.5 million breeding pairs, it boasts the loudest song relative to its size, surpassing even the melodious nightingale. These tiny birds can be found across the entirety of Britain and Ireland, thriving in diverse environments ranging from bustling city gardens to remote offshore islands, rugged moors, and chilly mountains. Despite their widespread presence, many individuals are uncertain if they have ever encountered a wren. This may be attributed to their diminutive size, weighing just as much as two A4 sheets of paper, and their constant activity, resembling a busy mouse more than a graceful bird.

However, it is important to note that the wren has played a significant role in literature, culture, and popular history throughout recent times. It graced postage stamps, farthings, nursery rhymes, greeting cards, poems, and even rural wren hunts, which remain vivid memories in Ireland, particularly. This captivating year-in-the-life biography, adorned with beautiful illustrations throughout, unveils the hidden secrets of this fascinating bird that resides right in our backyard. By delving into the life of the wren, readers will gain a deeper appreciation for its remarkable qualities and the intricate tapestry of its existence.

Weight: 458g
Dimension: 200 x 155 x 23 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781910931936