Waxwing (Bombycilla garrulus)
Recently, I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to work with this iconic species! Beautiful in the field – but even more so up close.!
⬅️ Just look at those waxy wing tips which gives this unique bird its name (resembling red wax used for seals).
It’s generally rare for an ethical taxidermy project to go to plan with no hiccups…but this one was a bit extra…
It looked good upon first inspection, but when I got in to it, I discovered 5 rowan berries it gorged itself on before sadly hitting a window still lodged in its throat.
The added pressure on the delicate skin around the neck and throat during impact, made huge tears in the skin.
The skin is way too thin to sew in this area, so I had to really carefully and strategically manipulate the skin in place (without making the holes bigger!) with glue and caulk and an adhesive.
Not perfect…but I’m so glad I persisted, as it’s not everyday you see these birds, let alone get to work with one on such an intimate basis.
So grateful for this opportunity – I’m gonna be sad when this one goes back to the client!
A Note From Me
Thank you so much for being a part of this journey, your support means the world to me. Stay inspired and stay curious!
-Krysten