Bohemian Waxwing
Image: Lindsay Kuch (cc-by-nc)
NameBohemian Waxwing
Common NameBohemian Waxwing
Scientific NameBombycilla garrulus
FamilyBombycillidae
Wingspan (cm)33.5
Length (cm)20
Weight (g)55
Plumage DetailsPredominantly grayish-brown with a pale yellow belly and undertail coverts. Features a prominent crest, a black mask extending through the eye, and a black chin. The wings display white and yellow markings, and the secondary feathers have unique red, wax-like tips. The tail is tipped with yellow.
Vocalization / CallA high-pitched, trilling or buzzing 'sreee' or 'sirrrr' call, often given in flight or while feeding in flocks.
Primary Dietfrugivore
Primary Habitatsboreal forest, coniferous forest, mixed forest, woodland, urban parks, gardens
Conservation Statusleast-concern
Geographic RangeBreeds across the boreal forests of northern Europe, Asia, and northwestern North America (Alaska and western Canada). Winters irregularly further south, often undertaking irruptive movements into central Europe, southern Canada, and the northern United States.
Identifying Featuresprominent crest, black mask and chin, waxy red tips on secondary feathers, yellow tail tip, silky grayish-brown plumage, flocking behavior
Description
A medium-sized, sleek bird with soft, silky grayish-brown plumage, a prominent crest, and a distinctive black mask. These highly social birds are known for their nomadic movements, often forming large flocks in search of fruit, especially during winter.
