Bohemian waxwings in Kuusamo, Finland

© Markus Varesvuo/Minden Pictures

Bohemian waxwings in Kuusamo, Finland

When groups of Bohemian waxwings gather together, there’s likely food involved. This highly social species likes to forage in flocks, primarily feasting on berries. After winter’s first frost, some berries become fermented, and our waxwings can get quite tipsy after gorging on them. If you’re observing birds for the Christmas Bird Count, keep an eye out for intoxicated waxwings flying erratically or walking with a telltale stagger. What’s the Christmas Bird Count? It’s an annual three-week event, culminating today, in which volunteers with any level of expertise help track the health of local bird populations. Started in 1900, it’s known as the nation’s longest-running citizen science project. If you have the time and inclination, get outside and count some birds!