Waxwings in Germany
When the Waxwing (Bombycilla garrulus) is present in Germany, when it nests, and which native Germany plants supply the food it depends on.
- Status in Germany
- Winter visitor
- Nesting season
- Does not breed here
- Size
- 18 cm, 55 g
When to expect waxwings in Germany
The Waxwing reaches Germany for the winter from breeding grounds further north and east. Colder in the east and south; feeders are widely used and garden-bird counts are a national tradition.
Temperate, becoming more continental towards the east and south, with Alpine climate in Bavaria.
Native Germany plants for waxwings
Of the native plants we track for Germany, these 8 provide food the Waxwing uses:
Haws feed thrushes all winter; spring blossom supports hundreds of insect species.
Orange-red berries are a magnet for Blackbirds, thrushes and Waxwings from August.
Evergreen roosting cover and winter berries on female plants.
Late-winter berries when little else is left, plus dense nesting cover.
Late-summer berries taken by Blackcaps and thrushes.
Thorny cover that protects nests; early blossom for insects.
Hips persist into winter for thrushes and finches.
Translucent red berries in autumn.
Feeding in the garden
Berries — rowan, cotoneaster and apples.
- Best foods: Apples.
- Rarely uses feeders.
- Irrupts every few winters; check supermarket car parks with rowans.
Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked
Are waxwings in Germany all year?
No. The Waxwing is a winter visitor to Germany and breeds further north or east.
Which native plants help waxwings in Germany?
Hawthorn, Rowan, Holly, Ivy, Elder, Blackthorn, Dog rose, Guelder rose are native to Germany and provide food or cover the Waxwing uses.
Waxwings in other countries
Other garden birds in Germany
Sources
Timing reflects typical patterns for the region as a whole; local dates vary with elevation and year. Check the linked eBird bar charts for your county.