Cardinalis Virginianus (Northern Cardinal)

I've watched this pair (they mate for life), for a few years now. They live at the edge of a large nature preserve. Mostly illusive and definitely camera shy, this bright male surprisingly posed for me one late morning amidst black berries (that match his piercing eyes) and the camouflage of autumn leaves. The common name, as well as the scientific name, of the northern cardinal refers to the cardinals of the Roman Catholic Church, who wear distinctive red robes and caps.


Nature preserve, October, 2013

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