A few years ago, the Bohemian Waxwing was my nemesis bird. No matter how many fruit trees I checked during the winter, nary a Bohemian. These waxwings are a sub-Arctic bird which often “winter” in the Duluth area. Large flocks of Bohemians have now started to appear in the Two Harbors area. This morning I found a flock of over 400 birds eating berries for breakfast near the Dairy Queen in Two Harbors, followed by a flight across town to hang out in some pines. After the storm it was great fun to enjoy some sunshine and beautiful birds.
On the way home I avoided the expressway and took the slow road, Scenic 61. I had to stop at the Sucker River crossing. This is why. Never take a fast road when a slow road is available! It was a glorious day to be alive! By 1 pm the temperature soared to 25F and I hit the ski trails.
Hi, Richard- Liz and I are in Superior, Wisconsin, tonight with plans to drive to Two Harbors tomorrow. Thanks for the Waxwing post. Are they eating American mountain ash fruits?
Not just Mountain Ash berries … also pygmy crab apples. Basically just look for any kind of fruit tree. When the waxwings are feeding, some will also hang out on the highest branches of near by trees.