After a week away from home in a far-off city, it was great for me to get back to nature. Somehow my senses seemed to be heightened yesterday as I took in the sights, sounds, and smells of the little marshland park that has become a second home for me.
Even so, I almost missed this female Northern Cardinal, whose muted tones provided almost perfect camouflage for her in the vine-filled underbrush. A slight amount of movement and the bright orange color of her bill, however, were enough to permit me to see her despite all of the visual obstructions.
I realize that most people don’t get excited about photographing such ordinary subjects, but there was something comfortable and reassuring about returning to the familiar, like putting on a pair of my favorite jeans.
© Michael Q. Powell. All rights reserved
Mike Powell 
i didn’t notice at first, second glance..but alas! i’ve found it…the one that is almost hidden.
nice shot 🙂
regards,
Mel
now I see why she is more gently colored than the male.. and I agree with you about the familiar, it is very comfortable, and sometimes even comforting.
it’s always great to get back home; I look forward to more photos of what’s happening in your marsh and surrounds..
So often we need the experience of being away to gain the full appreciation of the familiar.