The Cedar Waxwing

The Cedar Waxwing is a classy character. They are a medium-sized sleek bird with a big head, short neck and a short wide bill. Sorting a flamboyant crest that is hard to miss when raised they are certainly eye catching. They have a bandit mask of black with white edges, a splash of bright yellow on the tip of their tail and a bright red wing band tips.
They are very social and travel in packs so it’s rare to just see one. They can strip a berry bush in no time flat. Another feeding tactic is to fly over water for insects. Their skills over water resemble a fat, slightly clumsy swallow. You can find them anywhere there are fruiting trees and shrubs.

This painting was referenced by a photo of mine taken when the berries were plentiful. I am always glad to see them arrive and sad to see them go.