Sonia en Route

This has been a so-so winter, so far. Not too bad, snow in the moderate amounts and cold – well, it could be warmer. I am a generous host to all outside birds and feed them well. There is always plenty in my winter eatery. I like them, my winter companions. They come early every morning, as soon as it is light, but I am up before they arrive. I like eating my breakfast and watching them eat theirs.

Red-bellied woodpecker. He is a shy customer. I have to watch my movements when he is around. Sometimes he hides at the other side of this tree.

Northern cardinal. He announces his arrival with a characteristic chirp. I always hear him when he is around.

And his wife, looking curiously at me, almost as if she were to say: “Do you mind? I would like to eat in peace.”