Under the influence

Dozens of Cedar Waxwings (Bombycilla cedrorum) descended on our yard today, drawn by the berries on shrubs and the fruiting holly trees. Waxwings have been known to get drunk on fermented berries, sometimes stumbling on the ground or flying erratically.
The morning sun made them appear gilded as they perched in the trees, feeding each other, as is their custom.
We usually see them only in winter and early spring in this part of North Carolina. Once the berries are gone, they’ll move on.
Their visit added an element of excitement to what can sometimes be a dreary month.
The above photo was taken by David Hurt