Bird Watching

  Ms. Ez and I often take strolls down near the pier.  It is a peaceful place where the old dog and I can relax and take in the charms of the world.  She loves to watch the critters of the marsh just about as much as I do.  We both patiently sit while critters go about their scavenging for food.  Sometimes I think this is a bit odd for a dog since most would be chasing any critters that dare to wander to close.  Not Ms. Ez!  She only chases things when I give her permission.  Otherwise, she just watches...like me.   Occasionally, we notice that the critters watch us as well.

  Near the place where the pier meets the shore, a small shrub stands just a few feet away from the boards.  In this shrub, there is a now-empty bird nest.  Earlier in the spring, a pair of Redwinged Blackbirds raised their brood in this spot. Each day, the old dog and I would check the progress of the eggs and later the hatchlings.  We were elated when we heard the first peeps of the baby birds.  We were saddened when a marauding Bluejay devoured two little ones.  We watched with anticipation when the remaining little tyke took its first flight.  That first flight was more of a leap to the ground and Ms. Ez found great pleasure in nosing the little guy while Mama and Daddy Bird panicked.  They needn't had since Ms. Ez loves baby birds.  Still, the old dog was bombarded and she soon backed to a safer position.  The little one hip-hopped its way among the branches until it was hidden from our sight. Several times after that, the bird family could be seen busily teaching the little one to catch critters.  

  Now the nest sits empty.  It is a reminder of what was and hope of what will come.  Next spring, like the past four springs, undoubtedly, a new pair of birds will nest here.  I cannot say for sure if it has been the same birds or not but the shrub is always occupied by the Redwinged Blackbirds and always, Ms. Ez and I keep tabs on the little family.  We are the watchers.