Waxwings

Waxwings are a charming group of birds belonging to the genus Bombycilla, which is generally considered the only genus in the family Bombycillidae. These birds are known for their unique, smooth plumage that comes in shades of pinkish-brown and pale grey, complete with a black and white eyestripe and a distinct crest. Their name comes from their bright red tips on certain wing feathers, reminiscent of sealing wax. Typically found in northern forests, waxwings are not long-distance migrants but do travel nomadically in search of food. Their diet primarily consists of fruit, although they can switch to consuming sap, buds, flowers, and insects when fruits are scarce. In terms of breeding, they nest close to water and construct loose nests on branches, with the female incubating the eggs while both parents feed the young. Waxwings prefer nesting in areas rich in fruit and do not defend a territory aggressively. There are three species within this genus: the Bohemian waxwing, the Japanese waxwing, and the cedar waxwing, each with slightly different geographical ranges. Waxwings have also made appearances in art and literature, including Vladimir Nabokov's novel "Pale Fire" and songs by The Menzingers and Joanna Newsom. The genus name Bombycilla is derived from Vieillot's interpretation of Latin for "silktail," combining "bombyx" for silk and a misinterpretation of "cilla" as tail. These birds are visually distinctive with their velvety feathers, square tails, dark bills, eyes, and feet, and are known for their high-pitched calls. In terms of behavior, waxwings are social and can congregate in large flocks, especially when berry crops are low, sometimes resulting in large movements beyond their usual range.