My choice here was a foregone conclusion. I had never seen Waxwings before a small flock appeared in a north Cardiff park in mid January (Lifer: Waxwings, 13 January), and then a small gang of four arrived in Cosmeston Lakes, my local country park, on 2 March (Cosmeston’s Waxwings, 9 March). And, to my absolute delight, four new arrivals doubled our enjoyment and they stayed, and stayed, and stayed – 40 days in all (Waxwings, still, 22 March). It was a truly wonderful wildlife experience, not just seeing these birds but having them present for long enough to observe them more closely and really get to know their habits. Who knows how many years it will be till we are lucky enough to experience another Waxwing winter.

I know, I know, this is my third post about Waxwings this year but what’s not to love and celebrate about these stunning birds, and it could well be several years before we experience another Waxing winter like this one. Since they were first found at Cosmeston Lakes Country Park on 2 March, we locals have had the opportunity to observe and get to know these birds a little better.

Photos taken 14 March, after the extra 4 birds had arrived and all were feasting on rose hips

As food supplies have dwindled, the (first four, now eight) Waxwings have changed their diet from Hawthorn berries to rose hips to Ivy berries, with a little fly-catching on sunny days. It’s just such a privilege to have had these beautiful birds with us for such a long time.

Photos taken 21 March, after the birds had moved on to eating Ivy berries