Bird Vs. Cat

I'm thinking of starting a new series of blog posts. It will be called "Blurry Shots".

Not really.

But you could be forgiven for thinking that, when you see today's photo, hot on the heels of Friday's blurry deer.

The other day I heard the unmistakable twangy cry of a blue jay near our back door. In fact, it sounded like several blue jays and it sounded like they were right outside the back door. Perhaps about to barge in, they were that close.

With my camera in hand, I peeked out the kitchen window, which overlooks our deck, and saw three jays arrayed along the deck - and they were not happy. I knew my best chance for a picture was from the adjoining room, because the deck door was open, and one of the jays was perched on the frame of the swing.

Here's what I saw:

Photo taken through screen door.

And now enlarged a bit:

Ditto, because ... same photo, enlarged.

The wind was blowing this fella's belly fluff in every direction. He didn't care. He was too busy swearing at our cat, who was huddled under a chair, staring out the full-length window next to the door. She was not very impressed with this bird.

On the other hand, I was totally impressed. I think he would've come right in the house to get the cat if the screen hadn't been in the way.

Also, I didn't know blue jays had grey undersides until this close encounter. Thanks, kitty, for making this guy so mad he'd rather keep giving you the stink eye than fly to safety. Aren't you glad you're an indoor cat?