Birds

Bohemian Waxwings

November 9, 2013 by Redgannet 3 Comments

Judging by the abundant links on the previously posted articles, it would seem that waxwings send folks all-of-a-flutter.

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The BBC’s Autumnwatch program have been following the migration here and have asked viewers to be especially on the lookout for Bohemian Waxwings as they cross the North Sea to visit the berry bushes of the UK. The birds we see here mostly migrate in from Scandinavia where they breed during the northern summer.

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During harsh winters more and more waxwings make the journey to Britain along with Redwings and Fieldfares. Once here they head for supermarket car parks and suburban gardens that are liberally planted with Rowan trees, Hawthorn bushes, Cotoneasters and Crab Apples.

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Difficult conditions force them to move and they often arrive very tired and extremely hungry. In their eagerness to feed, they allow local birders to approach and get excellent views.

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If you enjoyed this post and would like to see more great images of birds, go to our 10,000 Clicks section where you will find our big (and growing) gallery page here at 10,000 Birds.

Written by Redgannet
Redgannet worked for more than 35 years as a flight attendant for an international airline. He came to birding late in his career but, considering the distractions, doesn't regret the missed opportunities. He was paid to visit six continents and took full advantage of the chance to bird the world. He adopted the nom de blog, Redgannet, to avoid remonstrations from his overbearing employer, but secretly hoped that the air of mystery would make him more attractive to women. Now grounded, he is looking forward to seeing the seasons turn from a fixed point.