They need shelter and built theirs next to mine

[BoyNhisDog]

This is one of the Cactus Wrens who are building their nest in my backyard. The cactus they chose was one I planted from a 2" pot that I got from Walgreens years ago. It started out about 2" high and now it is more than 12 feet high. The birds love it and we have different species building nests in it every year now.

The Cactus Wren is the Arizona state bird as you know. They are fun to watch and can be sassy. For this shot I went out into the backyard, sat down in one of my wrought iron chairs and waited. I wish I would have used a larger aperture to fuzz out the background better but the bird itself has good detail. They started a nest up higher a few weeks ago but for some reason decided to put it down a bit lower and the current one is looking very good. It is down a bit lower than the bird who is wondering where all that camera shutter racket is coming from.

Linda has been feeding the birds for years so we have beau coup species including humming birds who like the little purple flowers on a desert plant that is below and next to the cactus.


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Seize from every moment its unique novelty and do not prepare your joys
- Andre Gide

[Abe]

I like that.
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"Don't complicate what ain't complicated."

[cactuscat]

Cute - cactus wrens are some of my favorite birds. "Sassy" is a good word for them.

[JW]

Very cool! In my Tucson backyard, I'd occasionally have three hummingbirds hovering around and following as I tried to take care of yard work. Sometimes, on Siphon Draw in the Supers, a hummingbird get's in my face and just hovers as I try to do the ascent.

It's surprising how inquisitive these creatures are. Having a Hummingbird hovering six inches from your ear and following you around is a riot! You almost think they're affectionate :))
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What a magnificent time to LIVE! - Everett Ruess.

Since my house burned down, I now own a better view of the rising moon. - Masahide.