Cedar Waxwing

The cedar waxwing (Bombycilla cedrorum) is a medium-sized bird in the Bombycillidae or waxwing family of passerine birds. It is named for its wax-like wing tips.

It is a native of North and Central America, breeding in open wooded areas in southern Canada and wintering in the southern half of the United States, Central America, and the far northwest of South America. Its diet includes cedar cones, fruit, holly berries, and insects.

Waxwings’ preferred habitat consists of trees at the edge of wooded areas, or “open” forests, especially those that provide access to berry sources and water. They are frequently seen in fruiting trees. Waxwings are attracted to the sound of running water, and love to bathe in and drink from shallow creeks.