Birds of Southern Ontario
Cedar Waxwing
Cedar waxwings are native to North and Central America. They make their winter home in the southern part of the US but in summer they can be found in Canada, and at the very southern end of Ontario they can stay all year long. I got my first and so far my only look at them a few years ago when over a dozen decided to make a pit stop on one of the apple trees in my backyard. It was amazing, I get so excited whenever I get a glimpse of a bird species I have not seen before, and to have them visit my yard, wow!
If you ever get a chance to see these magnificent birds you will not be disappointed, Cedar waxwings are striking in appearance, they have a black streak running through their eyes with a thin white accent, and a drooping crest on the head. The tail is rather short with a yellow tip. The overall color of the Cedar waxwing is a brownish tan and pale yellowish belly. The wings are grayish. Waxwings are named so because of the red tips on the wing feathers which resemble wax seals. Both males and females look alike.
Cedar waxwings are very social and non territorial birds, they are always seen in flocks, sometimes in the dozens, feeding together, and they do not hesitate sharing food. Their diet consists of berries and various other sugary fruit. In particular, the Cedar waxwing got its name from its delight of eating Red Cedar seed cones. Insects are also part of their diet. Because of their love of fruit they are seen as pests by some farmers whose fruit farms are damaged from large groups coming in for a feast.
Providing water with berry producing plants growing close by could very well catch the attention of these unique looking birds and bring them into your yard as they are quite fond of bathing. Having fruiting trees can also attract them.
Cedar waxwings are considered songbirds, their sound is a high pitched clear but thin series of calls, including trills, often sounded while in flight.
Did you know...?
Cedar waxwings are sometimes called Canadian robins, recellets, cedar birds and cherry birds
They are fast and can fly at speeds reaching 25 mph or 40 km/h and at an altitude of 2,000 feet or 610 meters
A group of waxwings is called an ear-full
The Bohemian waxwing is very similar in appearance but a bit larger
Waxwings like eating overripe or fermented fruit which can cause them to get a little tipsy
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Cedar Waxwing Art
My digital art of a Cedar Waxwing can be bought on pillows and other products including art prints from Redbubble
