A pair of "not so ordinary" Northern Cardinals lives in our backyard. I have placed feeders in strategic places so I can photograph the birds and (not so wild) life at my convenience. As I was snap, snap, snapping the other day, I made a startling discovery. Mrs. Cardinal is missing her left eye.
I've paid particular attention to these two birds since and have been amazed by their behavior. Mr. Cardinal will come to the feeder and "scope things out". If the feeder is too crowded or a squirrel is nearby, he'll just fly away. But, if the coast is clear, he calls the female and she comes flying in and eats until she's had enough or until danger approaches and Mr. Cardinal flies off with her.
He is protecting her! He guides her into the restaurant at mealtime and stays with her. Then they fly away together.
What an amazing couple! Our family makes sure their feeder is always full!
