No, it's not snowing in North Carolina! However, last December 26, BOXING DAY for we Brits, the snow came down heavily and I was out in the garden with my camera having a ball.
We have several pairs of Cardinals who visit our garden daily. This handsome boy didn't seem to mind the cold.
Yesterday, while coming through the arbor I disturbed a bird who flew out from the trumpet vine.........
........when I looked closer I discovered a nest tucked among the twining flowers.
What better camouflaged spot could there be to build a nest for bright red birds?
Loosely woven of twigs and bits of fabric and paper, I was so excited to see the three speckled eggs.
I'm not certain the sweet pair of Cardinals who built this nest, and are awaiting their babies, are the same pair in my Winter garden .........
...........but they are certainly welcome any time of year. This pic I took of Mrs. Cardinal shows off her beautiful colors with the snowy background.
Cardinals, although shy, enjoy backyard feeders and make several trips a day to feed, especially when oil-type sunflower seeds are offered. A pair generally forms a long-term bond that extends across the years, rather than only during the mating season. The female lays two to five spotted eggs.
Hopefully I'll see them hatch before I leave for England.
Do you live where these beautiful birds visit?
.png)
