Waxwings · Perching birds
Bohemian Waxwing
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Bombycilla garrulus
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Voice
Song
How to recognize it
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Body length 19–23 cm
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Pinkish-grey plumage, crest, black face mask and throat
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White and yellow wing stripes, yellow tail tip; red feather tips visible at close range on adults
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High-pitched trill, "sirrrr"
About the species
In winter, a Bohemian Waxwing may be easiest to spot by its crest and bold face. Its plumage is soft buff-grey, set off by a black mask through the eye and a black throat. White and yellow marks stripe the dark wings, a yellow band marks the tail tip, and adults have small red tips on some wing feathers.
Flocks move through trees and shrubs as they feed, then take off in fast, direct flight. Their call is a high trill, "sirrrr"; when a flock lands or lifts off, its wings make a rattling sound. Fruit that has begun to ferment can intoxicate them, despite their ability to process alcohol.
They breed in northern coniferous forests, often near water, and many move south for winter. Then they travel in search of fruit, especially rowan berries, and may turn up in parks and gardens. In summer, insects also form part of the diet.
Where to find
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In winter, look in city parks and gardens for Bohemian waxwings — flocks picking rowan berries from branches.
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By dense hedges and thick trees in winter, watch for flocks gathering to roost together.
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During the breeding season in northern coniferous forests near lakes and peat bogs, watch for sallies from open perches to catch insects.
