Holding regal scarlet court from the perch of a seven sons’ flower tree, this cardinal was an early birthday visitor to pay respects and homage (and pretty plumage) to Andy on his special day. One of his Mom’s favorite birds, it felt like this fellow was carrying a birthday message to him from her, and sometimes that’s the way the world works.
While the finches have made a feast of the cup plant blooms all summer and fall, the cardinals have largely waited to dine until these seed pods have ripened into their salmon glory. In the crazy year this has been, this tree has had its latest-ever blooming cycle – usually this stage happens in September. I’m happy to extend the season, however, and enjoy the happy chirping that signals a loved one is near.
