Wrens do not sleep with their eggs, but rather, the female wren will sleep with the chicks once they hatch. Before we dive into the details, let’s understand a bit about the reproductive behavior of wrens.
Wrens are small, active birds known for their energetic behavior and beautiful songs. They typically build their nests in cavities, such as tree holes or birdhouses. The female wren takes the lead in choosing and constructing the nest, while the male assists by gathering materials.
Once the nest is built, the female lays a clutch of eggs, usually ranging from 3 to 8 eggs depending on the species. During the incubation period, which lasts around 12-16 days, the female is responsible for keeping the eggs warm and ensuring their development. It is during this time that the female may occasionally receive feedings from the male.
After the eggs hatch, both the male and female wrens take turns feeding the hungry chicks. They tirelessly search for insects and small invertebrates to provide a nutritious diet for their offspring. This feeding behavior continues for several weeks until the young wrens are capable of leaving the nest and finding food on their own.
Now, let’s get back to the question at hand. While the male and female wrens both contribute to the care of the young, it is the female who primarily stays with the chicks in the nest. She will sleep with them at night to provide warmth and protection. This behavior is common among many bird species, where the female takes on the role of nighttime caretaker while the male may sleep elsewhere.
As for the male wren, he may choose to sleep in another cavity or perch nearby during the night. This separation during sleeping hours can be beneficial for the overall survival of the family. By taking turns sleeping in different locations, the adults can effectively guard against predators and minimize disturbance to the nest.
Wrens do not sleep with their eggs. Instead, the female wren sleeps with the chicks once they hatch, while the male sleeps in a separate cavity or nearby. This division of sleeping arrangements helps protect the nest and ensures the survival of the young wrens.