A Pensive Cedar Waxwing Perches above a Pond
June marks the time of year these lovely birds show up and perch in our trees, nibble on berries, and surprisingly (at least to me), hunt down dragonfly nymphs.
My first encounters with their appearance, feeding, and nurturing behaviors occurred here in Sequim in the spring of 2019, and I must say, I was smitten. I found them to be not only beautiful but extremely agile, cunning, and more enjoyable to watch than any football team, even with a name like the SeaHawks – sorry football fans!
Personally, finding them was and still is a challenge except on our warmest of days and in ponds filled with lily pads – where one typically finds a plethora of dragonflies hatching.
At those times, groups of waxwings, and a few other bird species, dart back and forth over the ponds, snatch gobs of insects out of the air with lightening speed and maneuverability then transport them back to their nests to feed their broods.
My self-imposed challenge is to photograph them in the process and to (hopefully) keep one or two of my hundreds of shots. But first, this beautiful bird deserves time in the limelight, as above. But if like me, you’re inclined to learn more about them, I’m happy to point you to the experts at Cornell Universities’ All About Birds website.
What a beauty!
Thanks Sandy!
We have a lovely picture of a cedar waxwing hang in our apartment in Nebraska! The angle is the same as your photo. Thanks for the photo. Had no idea they visited Sequim, where we once lived !!
Yes, indeed! We see them every spring and summer, but I’m a bit surprised you have them in Nebraska too. I guess we’re both on their migration path. Enjoy your picture and hope to see you back in Sequim someday!