These starling-sized birds breed in the Northernmost coniferous woodlands of Europe, Asia and Northwestern North America.

During an influx of Waxwings into the UK in the winter of 2004/5, I made a series of studies from observing several flocks which frequented the berry-laden Rowan trees of nearby towns in Cheshire. To demonstrate how I often develop ideas and research my bird subjects, I've selected some of these studies which eventually led to the acrylic and oil portrait below.  Click on all of my images for larger views.  Please don't use them without my permission for anything other than personal interest.

Drawings of a waxwing which died after flying into a window in the centre of Macclesfield. To see and hear this happen was a shock to the on-looking birders, but to me it was a unique opportunity to really study the unfortunate, freshly dead bird, so I ‘pounced' and took it home to work from.  

The name ‘Waxwing' comes from the wax-like tips which project from the ends of the secondary flight feathers like little red beads or teardrops.  On this immature bird they're typically quite small and, in this case, confined to just three of the inner secondary feathers.  They can just be seen here, projecting slightly from the trailing edge of the open left wing.

Having the opportunity to open a bird's wing to measure, draw and photograph, is something I always find fascinating.