_Bombycilla cedrorum. Case 2, Fig. 40; Case 4, Fig. 54_
Crest usually conspicuous; tail tipped with
yellow; a black 'bridle.'
_Range._ Nests from North Carolina and Kansas to
Canada; winters irregularly throughout the United
States.
Washington, very common P.R., less so in winter.
Ossining, common P.R. Cambridge, not common P.R.,
common S.R., abundant T.V. in spring, Feb. 1-Apl.
25. N. Ohio, irregularly common in summer. Glen
Ellyn. S.R., Jan. 21-Sept. 24; occasional W.V. SE.
Minn., common S.R., Feb. 25-Sept. 28.
A Waxwing's crest is as expressive as a horse's ears. One moment it
points skyward the next it flattens and disappears. They are as sociable
as "Love Birds," traveling in small flocks which, like one bird, dive
into a tree and perch so close together that often several will be
almost touching, and with common accord they take wing. They feed mainly
on small fruit both wild and cultivated but are also expert flycatchers.
They nest in June, usually in shade or fruit trees, building a well-made
nest for the beautiful, clay-colored, black-spotted eggs.