Endangered Bird Spotted at Gwynedd Preserve

Sedge Wren finds a haven at Natural Lands Preserve in North Wales!

A rare bird species was recently spotted by visitors at Gwynedd Preserve. The Sedge Wren is a small bird that breeds in grass, sedges, marshes, and meadows. As a nomadic bird, the Sedge Wren may be present in a location in one year  while being absent the next.

A wide range of suitable habitat of meadows and grassland is vital for its survival. They are rare throughout their migratory range and have largely disappeared from Pennsylvania, where they are considered endangered and protected under the Game and Wildlife Code of the PA Game Commission. Habitat loss is a significant factor in their population decline.

Photo by visitor Andrew J. Lordi

Gwynedd Preserve is 279 acres of former farmland that Natural Lands has carefully restored to forest and meadow. A walk along the trails reveals a re-emerging ecosystem of native flora including warm-season grasses and native wildflowers. This ecosystem provides suitable habitat for the Sedge Wren, which prefers to build its nests in damp meadows and grassland.

Sedge Wren reports are sparse in Eastern Pennsylvania, and birders are keen to experience this rare occurrence. To catch a glimpse of this rare bird or hear its song can visit the Purple loop trail at Gwynedd Preserve daily from dawn to dusk. Visitors are urged to stay on the trails, as walking through the meadows can disturb the Sedge Wren and other ground-nesting birds.

Gwynedd Preserve is one of 18 public preserves managed by Natural Lands, a land conservation organization dedicated to preserving open space. The preserve is free to visitors, thanks to the support of our members.