As if
sharing the anticipation, a young pair of red-wing black birds were at the
feeder today. At first glance, it was difficult to identify them, save for the
fact they were of something different than our usual titmice, juncos,
chick-a-dees and finches that predominate during the daytime in winter.
Only
the smallest hint of the red portion of the epaulet flashed as the birds
foraged on the ground below the feeder. Still, we can’t help but smile, knowing
that within the next month we will hear the nesting call of these males - prrriiii
deeee, prrriiii deeee, as they
await the coming of the females.
Those
shoulders that conceal will then proudly display the red and yellow, a badge of
masculinity to attract a potential mate.
It
snowed briefly this afternoon, followed by a driving sleet. February gives up
slowly, and I wonder if the black birds experience regret.
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