We don't get bohemian waxwings here often, so the birding community is abuzz. They've been seen in large flocks in multiple locations here.Bohemian WaxwingThe colorful tips are behind the name - waxwings. The older birds have more distinct color markingsDrinking water that seeped up through the ice. Almost all our ponds & canals are frozen over right now.Feeding frenzyA Cedar Waxwing for comparison Townsend's Solitaire Long-eared owl. Deep in the scrub & I didn't want to get off the trail & disturb them See how many Long-eared owls you can find in this pic. Large flocks of robins have arrived weeks ahead of schedule.

Brilliant birds you got - definitely made the trip worth it.  I never even heard of Bohemian waxwings - beautiful looking birds - though all the waxwings are stunning...nice to see the comparison between the two.  Also, never knew owls would hang out in groups like that...I guess when there are youngsters, the brothers may hang out for a bit like hawks - but seems eventually they become lone hunters.Nice shooting!

Here's what Cornel's Birds of the World (The subscription is definitely worth the $49/yr) says about Long-eared owls"This species often roosts communally during the nonbreeding season; typical roosts contain 2 to 20 birds, but up to 100 have been reported."

Great shots of the waxwings. I like #2 in particular, showing some of their colours.

I just wanted to say thank you for taking the time to share these excellent pictures. I enjoyed all of them, keep on sharing! I know how long it takes to take the pictures, PP'ing thing them.BTW, your new lens is really paying off for you!

Must be great to find rare birds in flocks, rather than a solitary vagrant. Owls and owlets can surprise with their camouflage.