Waxwings are irruptive winter visitors to the UK dependent on berry supplies, whose welfare depends on adequate fruit availability and safe foraging locations.
Waxwing welfare during UK winter visits is primarily about food availability and collision risk. Birds that arrive in good condition after their migration across the North Sea rapidly search out berry sources that will sustain them through winter. Urban foraging on ornamental berries in town centers and retail parks provides essential calories but exposes birds to reflection confusion and window strike risk. Individual waxwings that collide with glass may sustain brain injuries or die immediately. The welfare of waxwing flocks is also affected by disturbance from people and their dogs approaching closely to observe these confiding visitors.