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(Bombycilla cedrorum). Patient Number 24-1011
Date of admission: July 13, 2024.
Reason for admission: Caught by Cat
Patient History:
Did you know that the cedar waxwing is one of the very few birds in North America that can survive for several months eating only fruit? Because they eat so much fruit, they occasionally become intoxicated when they ingest overripe berries that have started to ferment and produce alcohol.
Typically only a summer resident in Alberta, these birds overwinter in the southern half of the United States. They are smaller and more brown than their close relative, the bohemian waxwing, who typically winter here in Alberta. Cedar waxwings prefer wooded areas, especially those with berry and water sources close by. They are attracted by the sound of running water and love to bathe and drink in shallow creeks.
Often seen in large flocks, cedar waxwings are social birds and are non-territorial. The name “waxwing” comes from the waxy red secretions found on the secondary feather tips of some birds.
This fledgling cedar waxwing was brought into care after it was found grounded, with a small wound on its chest in a Calgary neighborhood. The wound was suspected to be inflicted by a cat, so they are currently on a course of antibiotics to help reduce the risk of infection. They are also quite young, so will remain in care until they are fully flighted and independent on their own before releasing them back into the wild.