Watching Waxwings

Bohemian Waxwings are turning up this winter in low numbers. I noticed one flying overhead, calling, in Plainfield on February 1. Why “Bohemian?” Nope, they don’t wear black turtlenecks and little black berets. The name refers to the nomadic tendencies of this species, like people inhabiting or passing through the Bohemia region of Europe. This waxwing breeds in the northwestern portion of the continent, and in some winters moves great distances, from Alaska to as far as southern New England. Look for them feeding on ornamental crab-apple trees in your city or town. (This one is eating my high-bush cranberries.) The best field mark to distinguish Bohemian Waxwing from its congener on the continent, Cedar Waxwing, are the rusty undertail feathers on Bohemian (creamy white in Cedar). In any event, I find Bohemian Waxwing to be among our most elegant winter birds.