Waxwings, particularly Cedar Waxwings, have a strong affinity for fruit. They are known to be attracted to yards and gardens where there are native trees and shrubs that bear small fruits. By planting these fruit-bearing plants, you can create an inviting environment for waxwings and increase the chances of them visiting your yard.
Some of the native trees and shrubs that waxwings are particularly fond of include dogwood, serviceberry, cedar, juniper, hawthorn, and winterberry. These plants produce small fruits that are rich in nutrients and provide a valuable food source for waxwings.
Dogwood trees, for example, produce clusters of small, round berries that are often bright red or orange. Waxwings are attracted to these colorful fruits and will readily dine on them. Similarly, serviceberry bushes bear small, sweet berries that are also highly appealing to waxwings. Cedar and juniper trees produce small, bluish berries that are known to be a favorite of these birds.
Hawthorn trees and winterberry shrubs are also highly attractive to waxwings due to their abundant production of small fruits. These plants offer a reliable food source for waxwings, especially during the winter months when other food may be scarce.
In my own experience, I have observed waxwings flocking to my backyard when I had a well-established serviceberry bush. The bush would be teeming with waxwings as they eagerly devoured the ripe berries. It was a delightful sight to see these beautiful birds enjoying the fruits that nature had provided.
To further enhance the appeal of your yard to waxwings, it is important to ensure that the fruit-bearing plants you choose are native to your region. Native plants are well-adapted to the local climate and wildlife, making them more likely to attract waxwings and other native bird species.
In addition to planting fruit-bearing trees and shrubs, you can also consider offering supplemental food to waxwings. Providing a bird feeder with fruit such as sliced apples, oranges, or berries can attract waxwings to your yard. However, it is important to note that waxwings primarily rely on natural food sources, so offering fruit should be seen as a supplement rather than their main source of sustenance.
Waxwings have a strong affinity for fruit and are particularly attracted to native trees and shrubs that bear small fruits. By planting species such as dogwood, serviceberry, cedar, juniper, hawthorn, and winterberry, you can create an inviting environment for waxwings in your yard. Additionally, offering supplemental fruit at a bird feeder can further attract these beautiful birds. So, get planting and enjoy the sight of waxwings feasting on the fruits of your labor.