meet the s0ngbird

Have you ever been awakened by a red charmer with a cheerful song? If you lived in North America, that may be your happy exit from slumber because one of the most popular songbirds- the cardinal- makes his nest in that part of the world. The males cardinal stakes out his territory with a clear whistle. And he can be a persistent and accomplished singer! Accordingly, one male cardinal was recorded as having 28 songs made up of different combinations of syllables.

This beautiful little soul is about eight inches long, decked out in bright red feathers with a distinctive black "bib" around his bill. However, the female wears a coat of dull brown plumage. She belongs to one of the comparatively few species whose females can sing.

I may not live in North America but that doesn't stop me from admiring these pretty little friends. How I wish to hear these songbirds cheer one day!