Cedar Waxwing

If you've ever seen a group of waxwings take over a berry-filled tree, then you know just how special these backyard birds are. Learn how to attract cedar waxwings to your yard, and listen to their song.

Photo: Roland Jordahl

• Scientific Name: Bombycilla cedrorum.
• Family: Waxwing.
• Length: 7-1/4 inches.
• Wingspan: 12 inches.
• Distinctive Markings: Head crest, black eye mask, red tips on wings, yellow at end of tail and pale yellow belly. Male and female look alike.
• Nest: Nests late in season, usually June to September, so young can feed on emerging berries. Female lays four to five pale-gray eggs with black spots.
• Song:Irregular rhythm of high "sreee" notes.
• Habitat:Backyards, parks and open woodlands.
• Diet:Fruit, tree sap, flower petals and insects.
• Backyard Favorites: Berry-producing trees and shrubs like mountain ash, firethorn, highbush cranberry and mulberry.