Hello Kitty-kitty bird. This is what I just said to the friendly Catbird popping around in the shrubs nearby. Every time I come down here to the pond, like now, this quirky and inquisitive bird comes to visit – letting me know he is near with his distinctive cat-like call. Which I find interesting, because other birds are largely hiding this time of year, quietly going through their molting/rejuvenation period. (See my article about this phenomenon here) Catbirds, however, seem to go through their season with surprising grace.
Besides their plain appearance, do you know a Catbird has incredible vocal skills? Some of them have been heard to communicate (using mimicry) the language of over 24 different birds! In addition, they also have a rare willingness to help other bird species in distress – often being the first on the scene to protect another bird’s young from a predator, or be a support.
Yet the Catbird is also unique because they are one of the very few birds that can discern a “COWbird” egg placed into their nest. In case you don’t know about COWbirds, they do not build their own nests. Instead they lay their eggs in other bird’s nests for them to care for. (And because COWbird babies grow bigger and faster than most other birds – well you guessed it. The other baby birds usually starve) But a CATbird is smart, and will immediately remove the imposter Cowbird egg from its nest. Most other birds fall for this most odd trick of nature.
Personally, I wonder if the Catbird’s gentle, yet interesting energy (and the reason it’s my new favorite bird) is first – because of it’s willingness to be open and communicative with other species. And second – their heightened discernment of dangerous influences to its unique and intimate reproductive life that it was specifically designed for.
These are both noble attributes to have, and the Catbird seems to have a rare ability to balance both without compromising either!
(It may also explain why, when I see a Catbird this time of year, it looks sleek, well-rested, and neatly tailored as usual)
So next time you see a Catbird following you around in the bushes (or another bird) – realize it may be trying to get your attention. Observe it. Listen to it.
It is only a shadow of heavenly realities – but through nature, a loving Creator is communicating wisdom.
