Beautiful Birds: Waxwings

I guess most of us who enjoy birding feel a thrill when we see a species for the first time. I don't methodically add 'Lifers' to a list, but it is always exciting to see new birds.

The Waxwing in the photos is my latest 'bird of the blog'. I had begun to feel it was only a matter of time until our first sighting, as we knew these birds were about on the trees with berries at Minsmere. We didn't reach the reserve until it was practically dusk, so my photos are only record shots. The thrill, however, was seeing these birds, and discovering that they were much larger than we had expected. The photo challenge now is to return earlier in the day, when the sun is out and the birds are about!

Meanwhile, Google Images has some stunning shots over here. The RSPB site has useful information, and can be found here.

I wonder (purely out of interest) whether those of you reading this watch birds ...

[a] professionally
[b] to tick off the species as you see them
[c] casually and for enjoyment
[d] to record trends in the avian population (which you submit to relevant bodies)
[e] because you enjoy photographing them
[f] because bird watching encourages exercise
[g] other

Do drop a line - or relevant letter e.g. [a] - in the Comments box if you feel so inclined. As I say, this is just for interest. Oh, and are there any Waxwings in your neck of the woods?