Here is "the healthier" nest with the twins in it, about 12" from the abandoned egg. As an onlooker, it's always concerning if the nest will be big enough for two as they finish growing! The pin feathers are in, so I'll be watching to see how long before they fledge.
To get this picture, Ken climbs a couple steps on a ladder and stands on an outcropping from the chimney. Typically the mother would be carrying on around us, but the nest is around the corner from her food-gathering tasks, so the babies are alone when we've dropped by.
Yes, that's a good, sturdy nest. I think they'll be just fine. It won't be long until they're bulging out of it. No more than three weeks I expect. Great vantage point, Ken!
@stray_shooter Thanks for sharing your nest expertise! Do you really think they may still fit in 3 wks time? (I don't need something new to worry about!) I know they will later take turns and sit on the side. They have a safe spot...maybe I'll put a pillow on the ground below them...just in case...
@Weezilou I'm far from a next expert, but it looks at least as large and strong as those I've witnessed produce healthy babies at my place. They seem to make it work, no matter how big they get. It'll be interesting to watch the progress. It goes quickly!
@jamibann Hi Issi! In the hope they continue to grow healthy, we ought to be able to get some good pictures of them by the time they're able to sit on the edge of the nest!
What a fabulous shot -- and so thrilling to see! I'm going to check on the baby cardinals again in my neighbor's yard. He said that all five have hatched new rather than jus the two when I photographed them.
@joysfocus LOL...I hadn't seen it that way until you mentioned it! (One of them has a slight, recognizable facial abnormality, and a couple days ago Ken and I watched him, sibling and Mom ripping around the yard playing tag for over 2 hours! They were so funny and adorable, we got the biggest kick out of them! Yep, I've got some cute pictures!!!)
@stray_shooter Ron, you'll like my note to Joy, just above. We've had more fun watching them! (All's well...just on hiatus until I can face the rearranged world again!)
Impressive capture, go Ken! I've tried to get close up photos with my phone, but alas the zoom feature lacks "zoom." Just wanted to pop in and say, "howdy." I'll be back!!! Always good to see a familiar face with friendly photos.
@moonshinegoober I'm always delighted when you choose to come by! Welcome back! I'm on a bit of a hiatus; I seldom leave home, and I don't want to bore people with repeated photos of lizards, squirrels and cobwebs! I love my back yard, but it has its limitations! ā„
@Weezilou I feel you, I'm in the same predicament. Living with family who are high risk and I've completely quarantined myself from the rest of the house but it's still nerve wracking. I'm happy to pop in though and here that you are home safe. Post a photo of a squirrel, I remember how happy that makes everyone. :-) Sending love.
@aikiuser ...remember the ad with the woman, her nose and hands pressed against the glass door of a store and she's saying, "Open Open Open..." There's my "virtual visual" for the day, just for you, Jenn!
I have a few robin's nests I want to post!
...and hurry back, looking forward to more of your adventures :-)