Waxwings

Cedar Waxwing, Bombycilla cedrorum

Family Bombycillidae (Waxwings)

Size: 7"

Season: Year-round

Habitat: Woodlands, swamps, urban areas near berry trees

Quite similar to the bohemian waxwing, the cedar waxwing is a compact, crested songbird with pointed wings and a short tail. The sleek, smooth plumage is brownish gray overall with paler underparts, a yellowish wash on the belly, and white undertail coverts. The head pattern is striking, with a crisp black mask thinly bordered by white. The tail is tipped with bright yellow, and the tips of the secondary feathers are coated with a unique, red, waxy substance. Cedar waxwings will form large flocks and devour berries from a tree, then move on to the next. They may also catch small insects while in flight. Their voice is an extremely high-pitched, whistling seee. The adult is illustrated.