CEDAR WAXWING
WR

Cedar bird, cherry bird, Canada robin and recollect are some of the names that this delightful bird has picked up in the various localities where it is found. The last was given to him by French Canadians who say the color of his crest resembles the hood of the religious order bearing that name.

In the Historic Triangle, cedar waxwings are much in evidence during the winter and early spring months. At this time, flocks numbering two to three hundred birds can be seen feeding on the tiny blue cedar berries or red holly berries. Pyracantha berries are a great favorite, and often a bush is stripped in a matter of minutes. They descend on the trees in a swirling mass and then become quiet as Quakers attending prayer meeting. They are very polite, often passing a berry down a long line of birds with none of them attempting to eat it. While feeding, they chat in desultory fashion and often show an affectionate nature by dressing each others' plumage.

The cedar waxwing is a bird of distinctive but quiet dress. All the colors of gray, brown and black are in perfect harmony and arranged for the best effect. Flight feathers are tipped with blood red markings that resemble wax. A distinctive black eye-mask is surmounted by a handsome crest that expresses the bird's every emotion.

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