Bombycillidae -Waxwings

A small but elegant group of birds that look as though they’ve stepped right out of a fashion magazine. Found mainly in the Northern Hemisphere, especially across North America, Europe, and Asia, waxwings are famous for their silky plumage, crested heads, and unique “wax-like” tips on their wing feathers that glisten like tiny droplets of sealing wax. These birds combine grace and quirkiness, making them a favorite among birdwatchers during winter months when they form large, nomadic flocks.

While many birds rely on insects or seeds, waxwings are fruit specialists. They can eat berries almost exclusively for long periods, particularly in winter when insects are scarce. Their digestive systems are adapted to process sugary fruits quickly, and they’re known to gorge on berries until they’re visibly stuffed. Sometimes, they even get tipsy from fermented berries, wobbling around in what looks like drunken antics! During summer, they supplement their diet with insects, which they often catch mid-air in swift, acrobatic flights.

Waxwings are also known for their social nature. Instead of being territorial, like many birds, they prefer to travel and feed in large, cooperative flocks. This makes them a spectacular sight when dozens—or even hundreds—swoop down on a fruiting tree, stripping it bare within minutes. Their soft, high-pitched calls, often described as “trills” or “whistles,” add a musical background to their flocking behavior. Unlike many flashy songbirds, they don’t sing complex tunes but instead rely on these simple, buzzy calls to stay in touch with the group.

Their name comes from those red, waxy-looking feather tips, which are actually flattened extensions of the feather shaft filled with pigment. The purpose isn’t fully understood, but it may play a role in mate selection, with birds sporting more “wax drops” seen as more attractive.