May 06, 2006
Baby Blue Jays
I was so amazed when I first noticed the nest... in my small magnolia tree in the front yard. There it was, about 8 feet above ground, with a clearly marked tail hanging over the edge... a Blue Jay!
I frequently circled the tree...maybe watering the other plants to not alarm her. She seemed glued to that spot. So still and patient.
One day I told a friend I had a nest and we both walked into the direction of the tree, and there in front of us was the entire family... babies actively chirping as a caring parent fulfilled it's promise, happily feeding their eager mouths.
I was nearly floating with joy. I thought there were only three, until just days ago when I clearly saw four heads standing in and around the nest.
The drama occured at dusk... a very loud screeching near my front door. I stepped out to see cats scattered around my front yard... and baby Blue Jays hopping about in a frenzy. Their parents were even more frantic, calling loudly as they often do at the cats or other intruders. My kind neighbor came over to see what this was all about, and after some patient efforts to lift these young flyers into branches, things became quiet.
The next morning, all were gone. No signs of babies or the parents... only the empty nest.
I thought about this for a while. How they didn't hesitate to try flying. When it was time, that was all they needed. Perhaps there was fear, but something stronger pulled them to do this act.
I believe that they are probably near by in the taller trees, now starting a new journey in their young lives.
There is so much to be learned from observing this event. I feel honored to have had the opportunity to do so.
Posted by kay at May 6, 2006 08:20 PM
Comments
where are they now?
Posted by: george at May 6, 2006 11:16 PM
blue jays are totally awesome
Posted by: elizabeth at June 19, 2006 03:20 PM