Bohemian Waxwing
The Bohemian waxwing is a visual rhapsody of subtle colors.
By: Jerry Poindexter
The Bohemian waxwing (Bombycilla garrulus) is the largest waxwing species and measures between 7 and 81/4 inches. It travels in large flocks and can be found across the continent, including the sub-Arctic latitudes. The Bohemian differs slightly from the cedar waxwing (see the Winter 2011 issue), having a pale gray abdomen, sides, and flanks. The primary feathers have a narrow terminal margin on the leading edges that is usually yellow but sometimes white.
The Bohemian waxwing will be the Best in the Northwest species at the Columbia Flyway show in Vancouver, Washington, in September 2012.
This article is from the Summer 2012 issue. For more information on our issues, check out our issues page.