She came back last night and again several times today. I think she might be working on a nest in our backyard. I love that! Click on pictures to enlarge.
This is the second day I have seen this very interesting female cardinal hanging out in the yard. I've never seen a cardinal with white on her head. It was getting dark, so the pics are a bit fuzzy. Click to enlarge.
Last spring, we had a nest right over the light next to our front door. It was wonderful that we were able to watch all five of the chicks fledge. I hope they join us again this year. Click on picture to enlarge.
This happy couple seemed completely oblivious to my presence and allowed me to take several pictures while they bathed and preened. Click on pictures to enlarge.
(Edited per Dave's corrections--Thanks Dave!) A sharp-shinned hawk grabbed one of the mourning doves that hangs out at our feeder. I'm glad we didn't actually see this happen, just the aftermath. We had just been talking about this pair of mourning doves and whether or not they might nest in our backyard this year. I know this is the way it works. Many raptors starve and they must take every opportunity to eat. It was just heartbreaking to see the surviving dove sitting in a nearby tree watching. Very sad. Click on pictures to enlarge.
This poor red-tailed hawk was getting chased by a crow. We see this routinely. Of course, when one thinks about the fact that raptors are often dining on the crows' young, it makes a bit more sense. It seems strange, but it is not unusual for raptors to be "brought down" by smaller birds. Click on picture to enlarge.
Many of these photos are now available as free e-cards (thanks to my super talented lovely wife!). http://wildlovephotography.com/ If you find any broken links, etc., please let me know. Send your valentine and e-card. Enjoy!
This is how many land animals have been killed worldwide for the meat, dairy, and egg industries since you opened this webpage:
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In the US alone, 10 billion land animals are raised and killed for meat, eggs, and milk every year. 3 to 4 million companion animals (pets) are killed in shelters every year. 10 billion aquatic animals are killed for human consumption every year.