Star, “Bird Sociologist”

I would never presume to call myself a bird watcher because I can’t identify different birds by their technical names, nor do I know their mating or migration habits.  But this summer, maybe because my balcony is directly across from the top of a mulberry tree and the fact that I have a good zoom camera, I’ve been drawn in to observe the life and habits of birds more than I ever have before in my life.  This particular tree seems to be sort of an avian U.N., where all the birds of every type in the neighborhood check in from time to time all during the day.  I like to look at the tree and its surroundings as a sort of microcosm of the bird world, which is replete with needs, drama, excitement and love, thus my new role as bird sociologist.

The birds come to the tree for many reasons, first and foremost, food.  Here is a shot of a beautiful bird with a polka dot cape taking a fast-food break.

Some like to choose a branch and simply meditate.  Here is beautiful little guy who is obviously a loner and has much to ponder.  Please note the subtle colors of his feathers.  It’s amazing to me how really different birds are from one another when you look closely!

Some birds visit the Mulberry tree simply to strut their stuff.  This bird obviously has a Dracula thing going for him, fluffing his tail feathers like a long cape trailing behind him!

Of course, from time to time an outsider sneaks onto the branches to steal food, such as this squirrel in his white jockey shorts!

And last, but not least, some come to the Mulberry tree to fall in love.  For these two, it was love at first sight.  They stayed this way for a good two or three minutes.  Finally, they flew off together to look for a room. 

So, if you always thought that birds were just these mindless creatures flying around, you were wrong.  There’s a lot going on there, much more than I can cover in this simple post.  But, trust me, I’m sure I’ll have more to report later.  Meanwhile, you might just want to give birds a little more respect.  You know what I mean?  Just sayin’.