 |
| Norma A. Boeckler has several wonderful depictions of cardinals. |
I have noticed birds waiting for their food on branches just strong enough to hold them. Our bushes in the backyard are not strong enough to hold many, and a squirrel or cat trying to climb up is bound to set off their motion detector alarms.
I was taking some cardboard out to the yellow recycle barrel when a male cardinal perched on the Chaste Tree, which is about 6 feet high. "Time for breakfast?"
I went inside and got one of the two birdfeeder storage containers. The cardinal sang at top volume as I scattered nuts and fruits on both barrels. He zoomed down, touched at the recycle, and grabbed some food for a dash upstairs.
I rang the chimes to let the rest of the creatures know that their breakfast was served. I doubt their need for it, but perhaps squirrels raiding another feeding station appreciate the notice.
Ranger Bob says cardinals are a good sign when they nest in the yard. His mother was so familiar with them that she could add feed to the spot while they were eating, and she talked to them.
Starlings and their cousin grackles hang out together and descend as a group when food is served - if they are not feeding elsewhere. They drop down, cover both barrels, and search the ground. In a few minutes they are gone, but they are not like human at a clearance sale. They leave plenty for the others so each dependent family shares the bonus.
The wary crows eat too, and they look like monsters compared to the rest.
