Bohemian Waxwings at the Abbey

Bohemian Waxwing in full flight.   © SB

In the hour before sunset, Bohemian Waxwings streamed through winter skies to Abbey trees, to land in golden light and eat buds from upper branches.

Despite the cold — minus 30 C and below, with the wind sharp against my face and camera-clutching fingers — the birds reminded me of spring, feeding on growth that soon will burst into new leaves.

These Bohemians (so-called because of their nomadic winter habits) migrate from their winter homes in south-eastern Canada and the northern U.S. up to their winter homes in Alaska and north-western Canada.

I've seen them pass by the Abbey in other years, but this was a first for seeing them in this rich light.

Bohemian Waxwing checking out the buds  © SB

Bohemian Waxwing feeding on winter branches  © SB

What are these? Bohemian Waxwings.  

Location: St. Peter's Abbey, Saskatchewan
Photo dates: February 20 and 22, 2014. 

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