This male Northern Cardinal was unusually aggressive toward this male Brown-headed Cowbird, a species increasingly turning up at our birdbath.
Words on Birds
The Winged Bachelor
If you stay outdoors long this time of year, you will hear the urgent songs of male birds–winged bachelors–eager to mate.
When Vultures Prey
I had read that vultures will sometimes hunt prey when no carrion is available. But I didn’t know if they might attempt to dine on duck.
Female Cardinals Have Subtle Charms
Remember, without female cardinals, these toned-down ladies in camo, there would be no bright red males!
2025 Resolution: Focus on the Subject, Not the Weeds
Manually focusing on a subject moving among weeds can feel like trying to master an ethereal force. When it works, it feels a bit magical.
Picky Eaters
Crepe myrtles don’t have typical berries, as this Northern Cardinal appeared to discover last week.
Red Berries for Red Birds?
I have to wonder if they are simply attracted by the color or if something in the berries helps these birds maintain their red plumage.