Wonderful Japanese Waxwing Bird

yujinland3 (74)in #photography • last month

The Japanese waxwing, scientifically known as Bombycilla japonica, is a captivating and elegant bird native to East Asia, particularly Japan, Korea, China, and parts of Russia. Belonging to the waxwing family Bombycillidae, this species is renowned for its stunning appearance and distinctive behavior.
One of the most striking features of the Japanese waxwing is its plumage. It boasts a beautiful combination of colors, with a silky, pale gray body adorned with a vibrant yellow belly and distinctive black mask-like markings around its eyes. These markings give it a unique and charismatic appearance, making it easily recognizable among other bird species.
The Japanese waxwing also possesses a sleek crest on its head, adding to its regal demeanor. Its wings and tail are adorned with waxy red tips, which lend the bird its name. These waxy tips are actually modified feather tips and are thought to serve a decorative purpose during courtship displays.
In terms of size, the Japanese waxwing is relatively small, measuring around 6-7 inches in length. Despite its diminutive stature, it exudes an air of elegance and gracefulness in its movements, particularly when foraging for food or flitting between branches in its woodland habitat.
Speaking of habitat, the Japanese waxwing is typically found in a variety of forested areas, including both deciduous and coniferous forests, as well as parks and gardens. It has also been known to inhabit urban areas, especially during the winter months when food sources may be scarce in more remote locations.