Help identifying carving

["Carvin" Charlie]

Hello Fellow wood Carvers
. I could use some help identifying a project that I picked up at an estate sale. Whoever started it did an awesome job and I was afraid that it would go unfinished. I'm not sure exactly what the original carver used for reference so I don't know for sure what it is. At first I thought Cardinal, now I'm leaning towards Waxwing. Does anyone have any thoughts?

[Nebraska]

I think cardinal. But at this point it is going to be whatever you want.

[arfabuck]

image.png I would say waxwing, - never having seen one! Google shows the following:- Waxwing first, then Northern Cardinal. northern cardinal bird.jpg

[arfabuck]

Identifiers are sharper beak, swept back crest and detailing around the eye.

[JerseyGirl]

Beak is cardinal like. But the head is off a bit for a cardinal (IMO).

[sappy]

This is a bluejay rough out, could be your bird. image.png

["Carvin" Charlie]

Thanks to everyone who responded to my post! I really appreciated the input. As to what this carving was meant to be I find myself undecided. I feel that everyone has valid points for their opinions. I think I'll put it aside and think on it some more, maybe some divine inspiration will come along. Thanks again everyone!

[Claude]

I would also say bluejay.

Claude