Shrugging His Red Shoulders

He has become a somewhat familiar figure stopping by almost once a week while his mate does a high wire act and sings arias. He watches her with a careful eye as she sails over the river and then back over the oak trees.   They are in love and it is spring.

He soon returns to the buffet just 15 feet below his perch. He seems unable to decide which beauty should be the first to break his winter diet.  Oddly the songbirds either forget he is there or realize they must be down pecking at the ground for capture as they frequently fly to the feeders fearlessly.  Perhaps he is not quick enough to navigate around the feeders themselves and they know this.

I was surprised to find he did not seem to be more interested in the two mourning doves that scuffled on the ground later in the day.  Maybe he is on a diet.   Maybe he is trying to make friends?

He is very handsome with his smooth russet feathers and golden eye.  Much like a Leonardo De Caprio of the woods. Looking good all dressed up.  Many times being brave and giving me the stare down.