The Waxy's of Balham

This has definitely been the year of the Waxwing, they have been all over the news and unusually, some have even been spotted in London. So, on hearing some had been spotted in a residential street in Balham, I took myself off to see them earlier this month. Never having seen one before, I was not disappointed, they are fabulous birds.

They come from Scandinavia, to escape the worst of their winters. Many people have pondered as to why this year they have come over in such numbers. It would seem there is no one answer, but the general thinking goes that they had a good breeding season and that food became scarce more quickly as a consequence.

In Balham there were around 15, and they sit up in a tree or on the telephone wires and every 20 minutes or so fly down to gorge themselves. The visits only last 20 seconds or so, so its mayhem for both them and the birders there hoping to catch a glimpse and a prized photograph.

Bad hair day.

How they found this particular bush in Balham is anyone’s guess, as its in a residential street and quite small. Plenty of berries though. They are particularly fond of Rowan, with this one being a pink. I dare say after this year, many people will be looking to purchase one for their front gardens.