I had quite a surprise this evening when I happened to look up in the still-bare Winged Elm tree in our front yard and noticed a flock of Cedar Waxwings was visiting.
I stopped counting when I got to 50, and there were still a few more birds scattered throughout the tree. They appeared to be resting – they weren’t eating or singing. But these birds are known to migrate from as far as Canada. Maybe they are getting ready to head home?
According to AllAboutBirds.com, “Cedar Waxwings are social birds that you’re likely to see in flocks year-round. They sit in fruiting trees swallowing berries whole, or pluck them in mid-air with a brief fluttering hover. They also course over water for insects, flying like tubby, slightly clumsy swallows.”
They get their name from the red tips on their wings, which look like they have been dipped in wax. Even though the birds were up very high in my tree, I was able to get a few shots that showed the red wing tips.
Seeing a Cedar Waxwing is considered a good sign in several cultures, according to SpiritAnimalsAndSymbolism.com.
“In the Christian tradition, cedar waxwings are believed to be messengers of peace and goodwill. They often appear during turmoil or strife, reminding us to remain calm and find our inner center,” the website noted.
“In Far Eastern cultures, the cedar waxwing is often seen as a symbol of good fortune. These birds bring luck and prosperity to those who cross their path,” the website also said.
So, since saw more than 50, do I have 50-times the usual good fortune coming?
