Tag: American Robins

They All Descended Upon The Eastern Red Cedars

It happened today. They all arrived. The Cedar Waxwings (Bombycilla cedrorum). All the family. All the friends and neighbors. They’re quite affable and bring along everyone. Often birds of other species too such as the American Robin (Turdus migratorius), will arrive in equal numbers, creating quite the crowd.

Both the Cedar Waxwings and the Robins follow news of what is ripening in what fields. This particular rush to the trees has been precipitated by the ripening of Eastern Red Cedar berries. These berries are loved by the Cedar Waxwings, Robins, as well as various Woodpeckers, and many other species of birds.

Robins a Sign of Spring?

American Robins, Turdus migratorius. Some migrate. Some don’t migrate. Either way, during winter they are often seen searching for earthworms, grubs, fruits and berries. Here at my cabin it’s not unusual to see flocks of robins congregating in the frigid temperatures, eating and taking advantage of the birdbath I keep thawed with a water warmer. I don’t look to them as a sign of spring.

When I see flocks of Robins I look for their buddies Cedar Waxwings, Bombycilla cedrorum. They often go for the same fruits, berries and thawed water. It doesn’t matter to me what they represent or don’t. I love to have them around.