Who do these belong to? I'll post 4 feather pictures over the course of today, see who can figure out the species first! Any guesses after picture number 1?
Warden Intern at Otmoor.
waxwing ??
To each their own
And picture 4
Final thoughts? (it was too easy!!!)
Now I just need to see some again this winter.
Regards Shane
My Photos in Flickr.
I think you all have it now it is of course a waxwing. These feathers were sent to us after one of these sublime creatures was unfortunately killed after a collision with a window (you can prevent this by using window stickers). They are here in good numbers, over 2000 have been reported from across the UK. I've had a few brief glimpses of one of them during a bit of lunchtime birding yesterday, he didn't pose for long unfortunately hence the somewhat poor picture below, we're hoping his friends will join him soon, there are plenty of berries left in these parts should they turn up! If you are out and about over the weekend keep an eye on any berry bearing trees, especially in urban areas, you have a very good chance of finding waxwings this winter.
Nice idea for a quiz Ian although I must have been looking at different photos LOL
Pete
Birding is for everyone no matter how good or bad we are at it,enjoy it while you can
The picture 4 is the one that gives the bird its name, as they thought it looks like a wax tip.
Can't believe I didn't get this right immediately LOL There are plenty around the Northwest at the moment. I caught up with them on Deeside and in Warrington.
http://www.rspb.org.uk/community/wildlife/f/13609/t/90222.aspx?PageIndex=3
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