A Visit from the Cardinal

cross-posted from: https://lemmy.world/post/32180471

This male has been so beautifully red this year, but he is very skittish and non-assertive. His mate is much more outgoing and easy for me to catch.

I saw him pop up in the pine tree the birds all stage from to come get some peanuts from me. The jays usually beat him to them and he either flies off or is left with nothing after letting them have first shot.

He hoped around to a few branches planning his moves... And that of course got the attention of the jays there were new peanuts! 😔

I was trying to get focused on him in the tree, but he chose that moment to fly over. I quickly tried to refocus my binoculars and managed to snap this photo of his disappointment in getting nothing but empty shells once more.

Better luck next time!

This one immediately before picking up the nut came out pretty well too.

Pennsylvania, US Pixel 7 > cheap binocs > dirty patio door