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An older woman holds a handful of seed near a wooden bird feeder full of sparrows while a grey Sphynx cat sits watching. 29 / 39

Six Little Sparrows on the Feeder, and One Hairless Cat Sitting Very Still

AI imagesphynx catbird feedergarden

A row of little brown sparrows has gathered on the wooden feeder, and Abuela Rosa is holding out a palm full of seed, waiting patiently for one to be brave. She's in a grey T-shirt and her floral apron, hair pulled back, wearing a calm, gentle expression. Just beside her, perched on the edge of a wooden planter box, Chispa sits frozen in place, ears swiveled toward the birds, golden eyes wide, body poised but perfectly still. The garden behind them is full of herbs and potted plants against a weathered wooden fence, and the late-day light feels soft and quiet.

That stillness is pure cat instinct. Cats are natural hunters, and even well-fed indoor cats will watch birds with intense interest. For bird lovers who also have cats, many experts suggest keeping cats indoors or in enclosed outdoor spaces, both for the cat's safety and to protect wild birds. Indoor cats can still enjoy the show through a window near a feeder, which many owners call cat TV. Placing outdoor feeders away from bushes where a cat could lurk also gives birds a better chance. For a Sphynx, staying inside is a good idea anyway, given their sensitivity to sun and cold.

The sparrows seem unconcerned for now, and Chispa is on her best behavior. It's a rare moment of peace between a hunter and her favorite show.

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