When people think of northern cardinals (Cardinalis cardinalis) they often visualize the brilliant red males. The female is not nearly as showy, and is easily overlooked. Nevertheless, I think she is quite beautiful, with shades of red in her feathers, bright red ‘eyebrows’, and a red beak outlined in black.
We delight in having cardinals in the yard throughout the year, and we’re now beginning to hear them sing – a welcome early hint of spring. For most songbirds, it’s only the male that sings. However both male and female cardinals sing, and they have a variety of beautiful songs which I love to hear.
I was inspired by this image to write my first original haiku.
The Female Cardinal
Subtle shades of red;
having survived the winter
she now sings of spring.
Here’s wishing you the sound of cardinals and other birds, and a Happy Valentine’s Day to all.
When we moved into our house in the Southland area almost 30 years ago, the cardinals were the first birds whose songs I came to know. I agree with you, Betty, that the female’s subtle “dress” is very lovely. Nice haiku, too!
Thanks, Patsy. I’m so glad you, too,know and enjoy their songs. I feel very grateful to have them as regular backyard visitors.
What a beautiful photo. She is a enchanting little thing, especially framed in the winter icicles. So when are you going to produce a book with some of your work
Thanks, Vicki. Don’t see a book on the horizon – much more fun to be ‘out there’. However I appreciate your question. And kudos for the cute valentine greeting on your blog.
She’s a beauty, Betty.
Thanks, Sara. I think so too, and so glad she allowed me to photograph her.
Thank you Betty for a beautiful Valentine photo. Cardinals are a bright and cheerful visitor during the winter here in ON and your icicle framed lady is lovely. Thanks for the link to All About Birds too – a great reference I will keep bookmarked for bird calls. I too have never written a Haiku but you have inspired me to try – this is for you 🙂
Happy Valentines
Your eye for nature’s beauty
lights hearts and like minds
Marsha, I’m delighted and honored by your haiku. Thank you.
What a unique way to celebrate Valentine’s Day.
I never noticed the red eyebrow…….thanks for sharing your extraordinary photos.
Christine, I had never noticed it either until looking at this image. One benefit of a photograph that doesn’t move. ☺
Hi, Betty – yours is by far the best pic I have ever seen of Ms C!
Is ours the only species in which females are often, but not always, the more showy?
DHB
Yes, DHB, as far as I know, only in the human species are females generally more showy. Good point.
What a lovely valentine. Thank you Betty.
I’m glad to be able to share it, Linda.
I’ve always loved cardinals – which make me think of my grandma. I tend to think of the males, but you have captured the true beauty of the female. This will be a favorite of mine and I believe grandma D would agree. Thank you for sharing!
Rebecca, I think your grandma would be quite pleased that cardinals remind you of her and I’m glad you, too, see the beauty of the female.
What joy – you wrote a beautiful haiku and my dear friend Marsha returned the favour. Pure delight! Thank you.
Who knows, Ann, we may both be poets and not know it! ☺