Cedar Waxwing

The Cedar Waxwing is a sleek, medium-sized songbird known for its silky crest, soft brownish plumage, and bright yellow tail tip punctuated by red waxy droplets. This particular body feather exhibits the characteristic smooth, velvety texture and muted grayish-brown tones typical of the species' underparts or flanks.

Soft grayish-brown fading into pale yellowish or whitish tones at the base, with a distinctive dark grayish or blackish patch near the distal tip

Transition from pennaceous upper vane to loose, fluffy plumulaceous base with minimal hooklet interlocking

Thin, flexible, pale rachis with widely spaced barbs that loosen toward the base

Silky, soft, and matte texture characteristic of smooth waxwing body plumage

Flank or breast contour feather, determined by its soft texture and subtle coloration

Soft, silky texture combined with a muted grayish-brown color palette and a dark terminal or subterminal mark

Open woodlands, forests, orchards, and suburban areas with fruit-bearing trees and shrubs

Breeds across North America from southern Canada down through the northern United States, wintering southward to Central America

Acts as an important seed disperser for various fruit-bearing trees and shrubs across its range

Bohemian Waxwing (Bombycilla garrulus), which is larger and features chestnut undertail coverts and white/yellow wing markings

Cedar Waxwings can become intoxicated or even die from eating too overripe, fermented berries that accumulate alcohol in their systems

Not historically utilized commercially, though admired by birdwatchers for their striking appearance and social behavior

Look near fruit-bearing trees, ornamental shrubs, or water sources where flocks congregate during migration and winter

Good condition with intact barbs and a slightly flexible rachis, showing minimal wear