A Red Bird

For an overcast, dreary day, Sunday turned out some nice pictures. I spotted this cardinal up on a power line overhead while shooting in Cockroach Bay, and shot some nice pictures, even though the sky was ugly.

I didn't notice how his tail was moving until I went to post these pictures. I guess some of that is how he keeps his balance up on that tiny wire while singing so loudly.

Looks like he's having a bad hair day, too. Oh, well.

Go Cardinals!

Here are some pretty good pictures of a male cardinal to make up for the obscured picture I brought you last week of a similar bird. This guy seemed to be much more amenable to having his picture taken, since he could hold still for more than a second, and didn't stay behind some cover at all times. That bright red coloration really stands out against the leafy green canopy behind him. I'm sure this fellow is actively seeking out a mate, if he hasn't found one already. The females are a much duller red color, possibly so you don't notice them sitting on the nest guarding the eggs. The bright red male is able to draw the attention of a predator, or a photographer, away. Like all the insects I've shown you today, this bird is from Oscar Scherer State Park.

Almost

Well, I almost got a nice picture of a male cardinal. He certainly knows how to stay hidden back in the bushes.

Cardinal (Not Sin)

I spotted this male cardinal at my parent's house this afternoon. I tried to get closer to get a little clearer picture, but he flew off before I got the chance. I've got a big whopping refund coming from the IRS this year, and I'm thinking about investing it in a longer lens. Then I should really start to get some good shots. Of course, I'll also have to invest in a monopod with a fancy head, and that will take up most of the rest of the refund.