Several years ago, I planted a skinny river birch near the south side of the house. It was an inspired decision. The little birch liked its new spot: the warmest exposure, and some shelter from the wind. It grew rapidly, rising past the eaves and spreading past the windows. Now, it is a moving art work: a green canopy in the warm months, a golden screen in autumn, and a twig sculpture in winter.
Birds love the tree, and often shelter there, or use it as a picnic perch after getting seeds from the feeder at the tree’s base.
These cardinals sat high in the branches, sometimes looking in at me as I moved slowly, trying to photograph them through the window glass without startling them. The more subtly colored female wouldn’t be still or look right in, but the bright red male was bold and willing to pose.
For more about these beautiful birds, and to hear their “cheerie, cheerie” call, click here.
