The Cardinals

When day begins to conquer night,

their songs will bring us pure delight—

for when it’s near to being spring,

they feel an urge and start to sing.

The boy’s a charming scarlet gallant

who has a lot of vocal talent,

but the girl can also croon—

they do their courting with a tune,

and sometimes, if they’re on a date, 

the boy gives seeds to his sweet mate! 

They build their nest with special care:

this is a busy working pair,

and when she settles with her brood,

it’s he that rustles up the food.

In winter feeders in our yard

will help them through a time that’s hard—

and for this good and lovely neighbor,

we are glad to do a favor!