Matty behind the lens...

Matty and I were in the kitchen when our beautiful Red-bellied Woodpecker flew up to the suet feeder. The day was overcast and grey, which seemed to be the perfect weather conditions for glowing red feathers. At first Matty and I just watched him, mesmerized by the intense red-orange, then Matty grabbed the camera and took a few photos. He didn't know if they would turn out because it was his first time to shoot. I think he has a pretty steady hand and good eye! He was shooting through glass too... Way to go, Matt! I LOVE them!

...and down below, two Mourning Doves were hanging out being sweet. They caught Matty's eye too...

Mourning Doves are susceptible to frostbite.

While reading about how chickadees, titmice and other winter birds fight the cold, and how ducks and swans can survive in icy water, I read that some birds don’t do as well in cold. Mourning Doves have only recently expanded their range northward (in the last century). As a result, they are not quite as cold tolerant as the mighty chickadees, cardinals, titmice and other winter favorites. During extreme cold, Mourning Doves suffer and can lose toes to frostbite. 

Larry captured this dove doing what looks like the "Ack! It's cold" dance!

Cold, cold on my feet! Why do I stay in this icy town all winter?