Last Thursday, while I was out in the yard, checking on my shade garden, I saw my male cardinal flying around. Nothing unusual, especially as it was supper time – for both me and him. What was unusual is that he let me get closer to him than he’s ever done before. I figured I’d take advantage and try to get a picture or two. Well, I got several pictures. It was almost like he was playing with me and posing for the camera. Take a look.
When I first pulled out my camera (cell phone), Mr. Cardinal was sitting on my birdhouse.
Male cardinal on my bird house
He then flew off and alit on one of my tomato stakes.
Male cardinal on one of my tomato stakes
I happened to be using the multi-shot mode on my cell phone camera and actually caught him flying off the stake – towards me!
Male cardinal flying off the tomato stake
Look at him, in midair, heading towards me.
Male cardinal in flight
I thought he was going to fly off, but he flew back to the tree and just looked at me.
Male cardinal in the tree, looking at me.
He finally decided to grab some food from my feeder.
Male cardinal on my feeder
Not to let any food go to waste, he flew to the ground to get the seed that had fallen. And he was only a few feet away from me.
Male cardinal, looking for dropped bird seed
His last look before leaving me – to play another day.
Male cardinal – last look before flying away
It made my evening to be so close to him. I think he’s getting used to me being around, and he’s not as afraid.
Or, he just likes getting his picture taken. 😉
Do you have cardinals on your homestead? What other birds do you see?
Sanctuary Gardener 
Looks like you had a great time with him. So fun! We have cardinals and bluebirds. Sometimes, I’ll hear woodpeckers, but I find ever see them.
On another note, What kind of bird seed do you feed him?
This year, I’ve been using Garden Treasures brand “Songbird Blend.” I got it from Lowes. I see cardinals, house finches, sparrows, mourning doves, and a woodpecker at my feeder. I love it!
Sounds great. Thanks!