The Cedar Waxwing is a small to medium-sized bird, measuring approximately 7 inches in length, with a wingspan of approximately 12 inches. These birds have a distinctive appearance, characterized by their sleek, glossy plumage, with a distinctive crest on the top of their heads. Their plumage is primarily brown with a yellow belly, with bold black and white markings on their wings and tail feathers.
In terms of weight, the Cedar Waxwing is relatively lightweight, with an average weight of around 40 grams. This makes them well-suited to their acrobatic, aerial lifestyle, where they can maneuver easily in pursuit of their favorite foods. They feed primarily on fruits, including cedar berries, hence their name, but will also take insects and small invertebrates when available.
One of the most distinctive field marks of the Cedar Waxwing is their brightly colored wax-like tips on their secondary feathers. These red tips are a key feature in identifying this species and distinguish them from other birds. Additionally, the Cedar Waxwing has a white eyebrow, which can be easily seen when the bird is viewed from the front, and a yellow wash on the underparts of its body.
The Cedar Waxwing is a migratory bird, with most birds in North America moving south in the winter to warmer regions. Some birds may remain further north, but this is dependent on the availability of food and other environmental factors. During the breeding season, the Cedar Waxwing can be found across most of North America, from southern Canada to the northern United States, where they form loose flocks and breed in wooded areas.
In conclusion, the Cedar Waxwing is a beautiful and distinctive bird with a range of distinctive features that make it easy to identify. Its lightweight, aerial lifestyle, and fondness for fruit make it an important component of many ecosystems, and its annual migration is a fascinating aspect of its biology. Whether you are a seasoned birder or just starting out, the Cedar Waxwing is a species that is well worth seeking out and learning more about.
