Bohemian Waxwing

Habitat: Open northern coniferous and birch forests. Mainly in Belgium and the Netherlands in gardens and green spaces in urban areas.

Appearance: In summer in north-eastern Europe and in winter in north-eastern to western and central Europe. In Western and Central Europe, the Bohemian Waxwing is a truly invasive bird, appearing in fairly large numbers approximately every 10 years and can then be observed as a winter visitor. The reason for these irregular migratory movements is unknown. In Belgium (very scarce) and the Netherlands (northern half), it is a winter visitor in extremely small to small numbers.

Breeding season: May – September. It usually breeds 4-5 metres up in trees and leads a very secluded life. The nest is solidly built from twigs, lichen and moss and lined with reindeer hair. The female incubates the eggs and is fed by the male. 4-6 eggs.

Characteristics: Length 18 – 20 cm, wingspan 32 – 35 cm, weight 45 – 70 grams, age 13 years.

Food: Mainly insects in summer, various fruits and berries in winter. In Belgium and the Netherlands, Bohemian Waxwings are true tree birds, only coming down to the ground to drink and bathe. They settle where berries can be found and move on when everything is gone.