This is so cool

[studiocygnet]

I just had to tell you all. I have a cardinal nesting maybe 30" (yes inches) from my desk window. Of course I pulled out the camera and raised the blinds. Got off one shot before she saw me and left the nest. Now I'm scared that I'll scare her away for good if I pay too much attention to her. There are eggs in the nest. It's up toward the top part of the window, and I had to stand on a chair. But this is what it looks like, through double pane glass:

[JohnT]

Very cool! About the only thing that will cause her to abandon the nest and eggs would be a predator. However, I recommend caution against disturbing her too much since she needs to incubate the eggs. Enjoy!

[studiocygnet]

Originally Posted by JohnT

Very cool! About the only thing that will cause her to abandon the nest and eggs would be a predator. However, I recommend caution against disturbing her too much since she needs to incubate the eggs. Enjoy!

So, she won't think I'm a predator? Is that why they built the nest close to humans?

[erisian pope]

I dunno, Tom. I've met you and I'd abandon my nest pretty quick if you were standing on your chair peering into my nest.

What a cool thing to have so close by! You're a lucky guy.

[JohnT]

Originally Posted by studiocygnet

So, she won't think I'm a predator? Is that why they built the nest close to humans?

Actually, I meant a predator raiding the nest and destroying the eggs. Your presence won't run her off for good, but it could interfere with the incubation and fledging process. Just something to be aware of.