What a gorgeous picture! That one is worth framing. I've seen male cardinals feed females plenty of times. I read that it's called "Mate Feeding". Found this on the web: History of Mate Feeding "Mate feeding" is actually a common occurrence in bird species. Raptors, such as the European Kestrel, as well as songbirds practice this ritual. In cardinals, it is seen both before mating and while the female is incubating her clutch of eggs. No one knows for sure why this ritual takes place, but there are several schools of thought. Mate Feeding As Ritual When mate feeding occurs prior to egg-laying, it's possible that the extra nutrition helps the female when it's time to lay her eggs. Another theory is that it may increase the likelihood that the female will mate with the male--a form of courtship. Females may also judge the parenting ability of the prospective mate by how well he provides for her. Mate Feeding After Egg-Laying When mate feeding happens during the incubation period, it may also serve to help with pair-bonding. This can be important to keep the pair together during the short breeding season. Additionally, it may allow the female to remain on the eggs longer than if she had to constantly forage for food.

We had one nest here in southern Indiana, first we had nesting, nested in a black walnut tree. now we have a mystery of a nest with a small bird that we have not got a real close look at, 3 eggs, blue with black swirls about 10 ft off the ground in a apple tree. The cedar waxwings travel in flocks except when they are nesting

Those little birds are so adorable. & be on the alert: In spring, they get "drunk" on fermenting berries (I forget what kind of plant), & land on the ground, reeling, easy game for any predator. All they need is a safe haven until they sober up!

Just today I've seen a nest with young...was wondering how late have you seen it in your area. I have known for late nesting and timed usually with berry crop...just getting late and only about 2 weeks away from freezing.