A Waxwing at Sandy

14th January 2019

Prior to Xmas there had been very few sightings of Waxwings in the South-east of England, but now they are starting to filter down from the North as the berries run out, and one has been present for the last couple of days at Sandy. It is not possible, however, to go to Sandy without a visit to The Lodge.

The reserve itself was very quiet with only a small number of tits coming to the feeders at the hide and no sign of any Bramblings at The Gatehouse. However, a quick look at the Broom bushes on Sandy Heath did produce a number of Reed Buntings.

There were also a few Yellowhammers but they were far more wary and unapproachable.

So we are now in position on Sunderland Road in Sandy and just a matter of waiting for the Waxwing to appear. Luckily there was a supporting cast of Redwings taking advantage of the berries before they all disappeared.

A Fieldfare also put in an appearance.

But then at last the Waxwing came along for its share of the berries. This first shot shows the yellow wax on its wing which gives it its name.

But the only way to photograph Waxwings is in the sun with a backdrop of red berries. What amazing birds.