The Waxwing Bombycilla garrulus (L 18cm) is a much-admired bird, named because adults have red, wax-like projectionist on the wings. The plumage is mainly pinkish buff plumage but note the crest, black throat and black mask through the eye. The rump is grey, the undertail is chestnut and dark tail has a broad yellow tip (narrower in females than males). Waxwings breeds in northern mainland Europe and are winter visitors to Britain. In most years there are just a few records but once every decade or so they appear in large numbers. Typically, they are remarkably indifferent to people, allowing superb views to be had.
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