Where have all the Waxwings gone?
Picture this. You are a dedicated and devoted feeder of all birds. In this case, the Waxwing. And then all of a sudden – as if scared by gunfire — your fine feathered friends disappear.
I recently heard from one of our viewers Cyrene, who asks: “where are the birds this year?” Cyrene tells me that last year they had loads of Waxwings.
I consulted with Alberta Fish and Game, as well as an acquaintance of mine who is a bander of birds. Both tell me that Waxwings will flock together where ever they find the most food. They are also “eruptive in nature” — meaning: they migrate where and when they like.
So, it is not unusual for them to become scarce in a location for several years. But as a lot of you bird lovers have noticed,…that causes great concern for the people who supply them with food and see them on a regular basis.
Birds may still show up, but will only stay for the time it takes to clean up the local food supply. Neither of my contacts have heard that the Waxwings are in distress.
I found a website with some great information about Waxwings. There is even an option to hear the song!
I would love to hear about the birds you are feeding this winter. Plus, pictures are always welcome.
Take care out there!