Compact View Of The Birds

I recently came across a bird nest that was built high up in the ceiling of an abandoned building. The bird had built the nest so close to the ceiling that I had to get creative just to get a sneak peek and a photograph of the little ones within.

The Courtship And Mating Of Hummingbirds

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The courtship and mating of hummingbirds is fascinating to observe. They display spectacular styles of flight. Before the courtship begins the male typically arrives first and establishes a territory rich in nectar. He will chase off all other males and hope the nectar attracts the females. For a while as the females attempt to feed he pretends to chase them off. Then the male hummingbird goes into his mating ritual. Thus begins spectacular patterns of flight, with wonderful maneuvers. It's one thing to watch this courtship of nature, but even more amazing to capture it on film.

The Bird Nest

I have always been amazed by a bird's natural instincts, skill, and know how when building the nest for the baby birds. If one really takes notice of the craftsmanship that is put into the bird nest, it is a wondrous creation. To me they resemble a finely woven basket, and much like the basket whose purpose is the safe keeping of objects, so too is the bird nest for the safe keeping of the baby birds. The way of nature I suppose. A wonderful thing, indeed.

For The Birds...

Ordinarily I'm not one to interfere with nature and nature's scheme of things, but today while taking a hike I happened upon a very small bird, that I could tell had just had it's first "unsuccessful" attempt at flight. His plight landed him in an open area a bit far from the surrounding trees. I spent several hours attempting to locate his nest, with the hope of finding the stressed mother bird. The surrounding trees that I searched were very tall, and after looking for quite some time I could not locate any nest, nor did I see any birds in search of this little one. Being the nature lover that I am, I ended up bringing the little thing home with me, and spent even more time after,  in search of worms, which the little guy was more than appreciative of.  I believe within a few days he will have his flying skills under control, but until then I plan to do my best to take care of him.

Crouching Bird Hidden Egg

One of the simple joys of nature, for myself anyway, are the sounds of wildlife. To sit quietly and listen to the chirping of birds, and the lovely array of sounds they make. To study them and become familiar with each one,  for me, is just another one of the blessings we've been given upon this green earth.