How to Get Rid of a Cactus Wren

The cactus wren is the largest wren in Arizona at 7 to 8 inches. The white-and-brown speckled bird has a lighter-colored throat that features black spots, a long beak and white streaks over the eyes. This species lives at lower elevations in the southwestern United States and can live up to 10 years in the wild. Known for their territorial nature, which can include attacking other bird species at their nest sites, keep cactus wrens away from your property by creating an inhospitable environment.

Cat
Predator urine
Hawk decoy

Instructions

- 1
  Remove cacti, as well as thorny plants and bushes, on your property, as these are all attractive to the cactus wren. The bird uses these plants and shrubs to make a large nest and also relies on shrubs for foraging. Uproot plants and bushes if possible, and donate them to friends or your local park or wildlife refuge. Cactus wrens also look for food in rock crevices, so remove large rocks from your property if possible.
- 2
  Keep a cat on your property if possible, as it will feed on adult cactus wrens. The birds may also be more inclined to stay away from your property if they smell a cat.
- 3
  Use the urine of cactus wren predators, such as a bobcat, hawk, fox or coyote, to keep the birds off your property. Spread the urine around the property borders, as well as near any shrubbery and cactus plants.
- 4
  Place a hawk decoy on the fencing or other applicable surface to deter cactus wrens.

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