I was wondering what the Oriole was 'crowing' about and then I saw the next picture.

Hooded Oriole

Hooded Oriole

The males don't like to share, meanwhile it's not a problem with the ladies.

Hooded Oriole

Hooded Oriole

The hummingbirds show up once the Hooded Orioles are done.

A Schlumbergera is Blooming Like Crazy!

This little Schlumbergera of Mike's is blooming like crazy.  I think it looks great!

Schlumbergera

Schlumbergera

Schlumbergera

Epiphyllum Blooms

Two different Epiphyllums have been blooming.

Epiphyllum

Epiphyllum

Epiphyllum

Epiphyllum

A Lurker at The Bird Feeder

When I was going through the pictures taken by the BirdCam, I noticed something unusual in the background of this one picture.

It's head is turn so that you can't see it, but the lower body and feet are definitely a bird of prey.  I see and hear hawks all the time.  

The Hooded Orioles Have Returned

I've heard them and watched the nectar levels go down in the feeders, but I haven't seen a Hooded Oriole yet this year.  However, the BirdCam got some pictures of them today.

Hooded Oriole

Hooded Oriole

Hooded Oriole

My Hero!

Gulf Fritillary Butterflies lay their eggs on the passion vines and the resulting caterpillars devour the plant if they are not removed.  Their bitter taste protects them from birds and anything else that might eat them.  However, today I saw a ladybug eating the egg of a Gulf Fritillary Butterfly!

A Ladybug eating the egg of Gulf Fritillary Butterfly