A couple of backyard visitors

     It looks as though winter has finally arrived for real, and snowfall and colder temperatures recently have been very welcome. Surprisingly, given the conditions, and in particular deep snow of late, our feeders have been patronized but sparingly. 
    Two recent regular visitors were present at the same time, and there could hardly be a more stark contrast between the two. 

     A male Northern Cardinal (Cardinalis cardinalis) is probably recognizable to many readers, even those who live far from areas where they occur. I think in fact it must be second only to the European Robin (Erithacus rubecula) as a symbol on Christmas cards. An accolade much deserved too, given that seasonal greetings featuring snow and non native birds seems to be an enduring tradition around the world. It is strange on the face of it to receive a Christmas card from someone in Australia enduring temperatures in the forties, depicting snow and a European or North American bird, but that is what happens.
    A Dark-eyed Junco (Junco hyemalis) is as subdued in tone as the cardinal is gaudy. 

     As a backyard visitor it is no less delightful, however, and we eagerly await the flash of its white outer tail feathers as it flies off at high speed at the slightest hint of disturbance.
     The Northern Cardinal is not quite so skittish, and perhaps benefits from being a regular visitor, thereby knowing the lay of the land well, and where to quickly dive for cover if need be.

     The cardinal is a resident bird, you see, whereas the junco only joins us in the winter.

     In any event they were both welcome visitors and we enjoyed the time they granted us. 

     A male Northern Cardinal is usually the last bird at the feeders before dark; perhaps always the same individual. The Dark-eyed Junco seems to seek its nighttime roost a little earlier.

     I am sure that both species will return to charm us again tomorrow. And perhaps they will bring a few more of their friends. Lunch is always free at the Gascoigne café!