Now that spring in on the way, birds will soon be displaying their own unique forms of mating behavior.  One of the most fascinating behaviors is displayed by cedar waxwings.

       Male cedar waxwings initiate the courting ritual by performing a dance highlighted by hopping up and down in front of the female.  If the male’s dance steps intrigue a female, she will perform her own dance.

       One of the most intriguing aspects of the courting ritual is male and female cedar waxwings will exchange petals.  The behavior can also take a far less romantic turn when the couple will also exchange insects.  Oh well, while that does not sound very romantic to us, from the size of the cedar waxwings flocks we see, it obviously must work for them.