Discover the Enchanting World of Cedar Waxwings

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Natural History of Cedar Waxwings
   • Order and Family Classification
   • Habitat Preferences
   • Range and Migration Patterns
3. Identification and Characteristics
   • Shape and Size
   • Plumage Coloration
   • Distinctive Features
   • Vocalizations
4. Feeding Behavior
   • Frugivorous Diet
   • Impact on Plant Populations
   • Potential Hazards and Considerations
5. Courtship and Nesting
   • Pair Formation and Courtship Rituals
   • Nesting Site Selection
   • Nest Building and Incubation
   • Nestling Development and Fledging
6. Attracting Cedar Waxwings to Your Yard
   • Plant Selection and Fruit Offerings
   • Water Features
   • Importance of Native Plants
7. Conclusion
8. Coupon Code and Additional Resources

🐦 Cedar Waxwings: The Delightful Fruit Lovers

Cedar waxwings, with their silky smooth plumage and iconic crested heads, are a delightful sight to behold in the world of songbirds. These avian beauties are known for their fondness for fruit and their nomadic nature, often traveling in large flocks. In this article, we will explore the natural history, identification, feeding behavior, courtship and nesting habits of cedar waxwings. Additionally, we will provide tips on how to attract these charming birds to your yard and discuss the importance of native plants. So, let's dive in and discover more about these delightful fruit lovers.

1. Introduction

Cedar waxwings, scientifically known as Bombycilla cedrorum, are perching songbirds belonging to the family Bombycillidae. With their silky plumage, pointed wings, and square tails, they stand out among other bird species. These beautiful birds are primarily frugivorous, meaning that their diet predominantly consists of various types of fruit. Their feeding habits have a significant impact on plant populations, making them essential contributors to biodiversity. Let's explore the intriguing natural history of cedar waxwings in more detail.

2. Natural History of Cedar Waxwings

- Order and Family Classification

Cedar waxwings belong to the order Passeriformes, commonly referred to as perching birds. Within this order, they are classified into the family Bombycillidae, which translates from Latin as "Silk Tail" – a befitting description of their smooth and silky plumage. The family Bombycillidae consists solely of waxwings, with three recognized species worldwide. In North America, we primarily encounter the cedar waxwing (Bombycilla cedrorum), known for its distinctive appearance and migratory habits.

- Habitat Preferences

Cedar waxwings are typically found in open woodland areas, although they can also inhabit other environments. The presence of fruiting shrubs and trees, such as berries or fruits, determines their suitability for nesting. They often seek out landscapes with abundant food sources, enhancing the chances of their visitation.

- Range and Migration Patterns

Cedar waxwings have a wide range that spans North and Central America. The purple area on the map represents their year-round range, which primarily exists in the central part of the continent. During the summer months, they extend their range northward, including parts of Canada. As winter approaches, they migrate to regions with slightly warmer temperatures, such as Central America. In specific locations with higher elevation, such as the Appalachian Mountains in North Carolina, cedar waxwings can be found year-round.

3. Identification and Characteristics

Cedar waxwings possess unique traits that make them easily identifiable among other bird species. Let's delve into their distinct features and characteristics.

- Shape and Size

Cedar waxwings have a slender body with a length ranging from 6-7.5 inches. Their wingspan spans approximately 9-12 inches. Their shape is defined by their pointed wings, which do not stay flush against their bodies. They exhibit a square tail, distinguishing them from other songbirds. These physical attributes contribute to their elegant and graceful appearance during flight.

- Plumage Coloration

The plumage of cedar waxwings showcases a delightful blend of colors. They have a brownish-gray overall appearance, which can vary in shades and patterns between individuals. Some exhibit a gradient effect, while others display a more uniform coloration. Their belly features a pale yellow hue. The most prominent visual features are the black mask that extends over their eyes and the red-tipped secondaries of their wings.

- Distinctive Features

Cedar waxwings possess several distinctive features that aid in their identification. Their crested head, characterized by a pointed crest that extends slightly beyond their head, is a unique trait among songbirds. Additionally, they have a tail bend at the bottom, which is usually yellow but can take on an orange hue due to their diet. Their call is a recognizable single note, a buzz accompanied by a thrill that distinguishes them from other songbirds.

- Vocalizations

The vocalizations of cedar waxwings are simple yet distinct. They produce a single note call, likened to a buzz and a thrill. This iconic call immediately grabs attention and can often be heard when they are feeding or flying in large flocks.

4. Feeding Behavior

- Frugivorous Diet

One of the most fascinating aspects of cedar waxwings is their frugivorous feeding behavior. They predominantly rely on fruits and berries, which provide them with a substantial amount of nutrition. Cedar waxwings have evolved to thrive on a fruit diet, allowing them to sustain themselves for extended periods. Unlike many other songbirds, they do not regurgitate seeds, contributing to seed dispersal as they travel and defecate. Consequently, their feeding habits play a crucial role in maintaining and redistributing plant populations.

- Impact on Plant Populations

Cedar waxwings' voracious appetites and nomadic nature enable them to facilitate the dispersal of different plant species. When these birds consume fruit, they inadvertently ingest seeds. As the seeds pass through their digestive system, they are not affected and remain viable. Consequently, when cedar waxwings visit new locations, they excrete these seeds, potentially leading to the growth of new plants. The birds unknowingly contribute to the diversification and distribution of plant life, playing a vital role in ecosystem dynamics.

- Potential Hazards and Considerations

While cedar waxwings thrive on a fruit diet, there are a few considerations and potential hazards associated with their feeding habits. In certain instances, when fruits remain ripe for an extended period, they can ferment, leading to an alcohol content in the fruit. Cedar waxwings may consume overripe fruit unknowingly, resulting in behavioral changes and a temporary loss of coordination. If you encounter a wobbly waxwing, it is possible that it has indulged in overripe fruit. In such cases, providing a safe environment and monitoring their recovery may be necessary.

Another consideration is the potential ingestion of toxic plants containing cyanide. While most fruit in their diet poses no threat, certain species, such as the Chinese privet, can be toxic. If cedar waxwings consumed a significant amount of berries from toxic plants, it could have detrimental effects on their health. Sourcing native plants and avoiding invasive species in your yard helps ensure a safe and healthy environment for these birds.

5. Courtship and Nesting

Cedar waxwings engage in courtship rituals and nesting activities during specific seasons. Let's explore the fascinating details of their courtship behavior and nesting habits.

- Pair Formation and Courtship Rituals

Cedar waxwings form pairs between April and June. During this period, males court females through feeding behaviors. The male offers food to the female, an act known as courtship feeding. It is an endearing display of affection, symbolizing the male's dedication to supporting the female during the nesting phase. Another courtship ritual observed in cedar waxwings is called courtship hopping. This behavior involves two waxwings passing a food item back and forth, taking turns and showcasing their synchronization and coordination.

- Nesting Site Selection

The female cedar waxwing plays a significant role in choosing the nesting site. Ideal locations for nesting include the edges of woodlands, isolated trees or shrubs, and areas near fruit orchards or young pine plantations. The presence of fruiting trees and shrubs is a bonus, as it ensures a nearby food source for the nesting pair and their future offspring. While cedar waxwings are not highly territorial, they prioritize the safety and accessibility of their nesting site.

- Nest Building and Incubation

Once the pair has selected a suitable nesting site, they gather materials together. The female takes the lead in constructing the nest, utilizing twigs, cattail down, moss, and dead leaves. Interestingly, cedar waxwings often incorporate materials from other nests, such as those built by Baltimore Orioles. This "bandit" behavior results in a nest that is somewhat bulky and open, yet still firmly anchored. Nest building typically takes approximately five to six days.

Upon completion of the nest, the female begins incubating the eggs, while the male assumes the role of a guardian. He brings food to the female during incubation, ensuring her sustenance and protecting the nest from potential threats. The incubation period lasts approximately 11 to 13 days, during which the female diligently tends to her eggs.

- Nestling Development and Fledging

Once the eggs hatch, the nestlings emerge as altricial young, meaning they are naked, blind, and reliant on their parents for care. The nestlings initially have bright red mouths with neon-like lines, signaling to the parents where to deliver food. For the first few days, they have a high insect diet to support their growth and development. Eventually, their diet shifts to a higher fruit content, consistent with the adults' feeding habits.

The nestling period lasts approximately 14 to 18 days, during which the young waxwings undergo significant growth and feather development. As the nestlings develop their flight feathers, they exhibit an in-between phase with partially grown feathers. Once they have attained their full plumage and acquired the ability to fly, they fledge from the nest. At this stage, the fledglings may appear shorter-tailed and fluffier, with feathers that have not fully matured. It is essential to recognize these fledglings as they explore their surroundings, as their appearance may differ from adult birds.

6. Attracting Cedar Waxwings to Your Yard

If you wish to attract cedar waxwings to your yard, several strategies can increase the likelihood of their visitation. Let's explore ways to create an enticing environment for these delightful birds.

- Plant Selection and Fruit Offerings

Consider planting trees and shrubs that produce fruit favored by cedar waxwings. Native plants such as dogwood, serviceberry, juniper, hawthorn, and winterberry are excellent choices. Additionally, if you have cedar trees in your area, maintaining them appropriately can contribute to attracting waxwings. Offering fruit such as blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, and chopped apples can also entice these birds. However, ensure the fruit remains fresh and avoid overripe or fermented options, as they can pose health risks.

- Water Features

Cedar waxwings, like other birds, require access to fresh water for drinking and bathing. Include water features in your yard, such as a standing or hanging birdbath or a small tray filled with fresh water. Providing water throughout the year, even during winter, is crucial for their well-being and helps them maintain their plumage.

- Importance of Native Plants

When planning your yard, prioritize native plants that benefit local ecosystems. Native plants offer a familiar and abundant food source for cedar waxwings, ensuring they can thrive in a natural habitat. These plants have evolved alongside local wildlife and play a crucial role in supporting biodiversity. Avoid invasive plant species that can outcompete native plants, reducing the variety available to wildlife.

7. Conclusion

Cedar waxwings are fascinating and captivating birds known for their frugivorous diet, distinctive appearance, and enchanting courtship behavior. Their nomadic nature and fruit-oriented feeding habits make them valuable contributors to plant populations and biodiversity. By understanding their natural history, identifying their characteristics, and providing suitable habitats, we can continue to appreciate their beauty and contribution to our ecosystems.

8. Coupon Code and Additional Resources

If you are interested in attracting cedar waxwings to your yard, we offer a special discount. Use the coupon code "WAXWINGS" to get $5 off any purchase of $25 or more. This coupon is only valid today and can be redeemed in-store or for phone orders. Contact us for more information, and be sure to check our website for future presentations and resources.

Resources:

• McAlay Library: www.mcalaylibrary.org
• All About Birds: www.allaboutbirds.org

Highlights

• Cedar waxwings, known for their silky smooth plumage and nomadic nature, are captivating fruit-loving birds.
• Their distinctive features include a crested head, pointed wings, square tail, black mask, and red-tipped secondaries.
• Cedar waxwings primarily feed on fruit, significantly impacting plant populations and aiding in seed dispersal.
• Their courtship rituals involve courtship feeding and courtship hopping, displaying coordination and synchronization.
• Nesting occurs between April and June, with the female selecting the nesting site and constructing the nest.
• Young cedar waxwings develop intriguing indicators, such as bright red mouths, to guide parents in feeding them.
• Attracting cedar waxwings to your yard can be done through plant selection, fruit offerings, and providing water sources.
• Native plants are crucial for sustaining cedar waxwings and supporting local ecosystems.
• Promotional coupon code "WAXWINGS" offers a $5 discount on qualifying purchases.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: How long does the nesting period of cedar waxwings last? A: Cedar waxwings remain in their nest for approximately 14 to 18 days, undergoing significant growth and feather development during this time.

Q: Do cedar waxwings migrate? A: Yes, cedar waxwings are migratory birds. They typically migrate during spring and fall, with their summer range expanding into Canada and their winter range extending to Central America.

Q: Are cedar waxwings harmful to plants? A: Cedar waxwings play a beneficial role in plant populations by dispersing seeds through their feeding habits. However, they can occasionally consume overripe fruit, which may lead to behavioral changes but generally poses no significant harm to plants.

Q: Can I attract cedar waxwings to my yard with a birdbath? A: Yes, providing water sources such as a birdbath can attract cedar waxwings. They rely on fresh water for drinking and bathing, especially during the hot summer months.

Q: Why is it important to choose native plants to attract cedar waxwings? A: Native plants offer familiar and abundant food sources for cedar waxwings, supporting their natural feeding habits. Native plants also contribute to the overall biodiversity and health of the local ecosystem.

Q: How can I redeem the coupon code "WAXWINGS"? A: To redeem the coupon code, simply mention it during your in-store or phone order. The code provides a $5 discount on purchases of $25 or more and is valid only for today.