This male cardinal had a divot out of the feathers at the back of his head; it seems a bad time to molt, as cold as it is!
Later, I got a photo of him and discovered he'd lost feathers around his right eye, too--
A strange time for parasites, too...what's up with this poor guy?
I really appreciate how you see each living thing as an individual. Not just a cardinal, but a specific cardinal with defining characteristics. And as a long time observer of birds, you know that there’s cause for concern. And then your impeccable recording of your observations and experience is a gift to us all, Cathy! The gymnastic posture of the squirrel is really wonderful, too.
ReplyDeleteMarcia, thank you so much! I DO notice; anomalies catch my eye.
DeleteI saw a squirrel doing something similar to that yesterday, only higher on the tree. He stretched and stretched and then gave up and came on down the trunk he was on! They make me laugh...
He might be a victim of a strike from a hawk or an owl.
ReplyDeleteYes, it looks like another bird had a nasty peck at the poor cardinal. If that is the case, he is a lucky fellow.
ReplyDeleteNot sure, now--on close inspection (binoculars) he's also lost some of the feathers around his eyes and one other place on his head. Poor guy!
DeleteOops! I commented a couple of days ago and must have forgotten to push the button. I'm wondering if hormones are beginning to rage and if he got in a good fight with another male. In any case I hope your cardinal does well …. and I love the little squirrel in the background.
ReplyDeleteCould be, but the loss of feathers around his eyes suggest either parasites or early molt? And thank you, I really love my squirrels!
DeleteI love the context you add to the page. It is good to be able to sketch the same animal/tree/bird many times and know them so well
ReplyDelete