Bohemian Waxwings are distinct birds with a sleek appearance, sporting red waxy deposits at the tips of their secondary feathers. Their coloration is grayish-brown with unique white and yellow wing-patches and yellow tail-bands. These birds have crested heads, black throats, and black masks that are lightly lined with white, which gives them their distinct appearance. Additionally, their heads have a rufous hue, and their undertail coverts are also rufous. Juvenile Bohemian Waxwings have most of these features but lack the feather-tips and are instead mottled gray-brown. As the birds mature, the feather-tips increase in size and number. The only bird commonly found in Washington that could be mistaken for a Bohemian Waxwing is the smaller and browner Cedar Waxwing, which has a yellow tinge underneath. Unlike Bohemian Waxwings, Cedar Waxwings lack the rufous undertail coverts and white and yellow wing markings.
The Bohemian Waxwing is an eye-catching and amiable avian species that inhabits the upper regions of North America and Eurasia. Its unique appearance is characterized by a smooth grey body, a black mask, and brilliant red wingtips.
Waxwings are social birds that enjoy the company of their peers. During winter, they flock together to find food. Their diet consists mainly of fruits, such as juniper, mountain ash, and hawthorn. They may also eat insects and drop by bird feeders for some seeds.
The Bohemian Waxwing is a bird species that possesses distinctive traits that make them a fascinating sight to behold. Their vocalization stands out as it is a unique high-pitched whistling sound that can be described as “tseee” or “see-see-see”. The birds are also known for their impressive flight patterns, which feature swoops and dives through the air.
Their remarkable appearance and social behavior have made them a favorite among birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Unfortunately, their population numbers are dwindling due to the loss and fragmentation of their habitats, as well as the negative effects of climate change. To address this challenge, conservation initiatives are in place to protect their habitats and raise awareness of their ecological significance.
