Cedar Waxwings!

Adult Cedar Waxwing

I participated this weekend in the Great Backyard Bird Count, observing birds visiting our garden http://www.audubon.org/content/about-great-backyard-bird-count

Some were the usual visitors, including white crowned sparrows, California towhees and Anna's hummingbirds. But the big surprise appearance was made by Cedar Waxwings.

I knew that Cedar Waxwings visit our neighborhood, but had never actually seen any until now.

I have yet to identify what kind of tree it is, but suddenly a group of 4 or 5 of these birds landed in our neighbors' tree, eating berries and possibly insects. Fortunately they lingered for about 15 minutes, so I could take these photos of them. See how its beautiful colored feathers shine in the sun (image above).

Cedar Waxwing juvenile