One of our favourite birds has been back with us this week, taking advantage of the wild plums on the tree by my house. The Cedar Waxwing, described as a silky, shiny collection of brown, gray and lemon-yellow, accented with a subdued crest, vivid yellow trim on the tail feathers, rakish black mask, and brilliant-red wax droplets on the wing feathers. They always come in a flock, filling the air with their thin, high whistles.
Very co-operative, these birds during courtship During courtship the male and female will sit together and pass small objects back and forth, such as flower petals or an insect. Mating pairs will sometimes rub their beaks together affectionately. They are not not territorial, although they will pair off during mating season, they usually still remain in the good sized flocks, feeding amicably together.
Fond of edge habitat, shallow water, and fruiting trees, there is lots for them to like around Bondi, and we are frequently graced by their presence. When the wild choke-cherry trees are in fruit, it is very common to suddenly find the tree filled with a passing flock of waxwings. Since these berries can become over-ripe and ferment, occasionally the birds get 'drunk' on the fruit, creating erratic flight patterns.
Oh, and that lovely band of yellow at the edge of the tail? If they are eating a lot of honeysuckle when those feathers are growing, the colour comes in a glorious orange. Very elegant indeed!
Gorgeous. I passed a bunch the other day. I remember spotting them last year while canoeing. Each season brings its rewards!
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