Little bird in the Big Apple
Someone tell this little guy he needs some camouflage—but don't scare him off. Even in a city that never sleeps, it's nice to hear the chitter of a songbird as the sun comes up. And this northern cardinal, photographed while nestling in a New York City shrub, seems happy to oblige.Cardinals, both the bright red males and brownish females alike, sing a distinctive whistling song that's said to herald the end of winter. So if you're in the Big Apple for the next spring thaw, you needn't head all the way to Broadway for a cheery tune—just cast an ear to the trees.
Someone tell this little guy he needs some camouflage—but don't scare him off. Even in a city that never sleeps, it's nice to hear the chitter of a songbird as the sun comes up. And this northern cardinal, photographed while nestling in a New York City shrub, seems happy to oblige.Cardinals, both the bright red males and brownish females alike, sing a distinctive whistling song that's said to herald the end of winter. So if you're in the Big Apple for the next spring thaw, you needn't head all the way to Broadway for a cheery tune—just cast an ear to the trees.
A male cardinal's red coat is great for attracting mates. For camouflage, not so much.
© Enn Li Photography / Moment / Getty Images 2026-06-15 11:34:59 :