“The Canary” by Morris Rosenfeld
The free canary warbles / In leafy forest dell: / Who feels what rapture thrills her, / And who her joy can tell?
The sweet canary warbles / Where wealth and splendor dwell: / Who knows what sorrow moves her, / And who her pain can tell?
A Wild Encounter in the Leaves
Much like the inner thought-world of the birds in Rosenfeld's poem, this wild canary was elusive and opaque. During our trek, I tried several different angles to capture a clear shot, but it always managed to keep a screen of leaves between us—a true “leafy forest dell” inhabitant.
Identifying the White-bellied Canary
Based on its vibrant plumage and minimal dark striping, I believe this is a male White-bellied Canary (Crithagra dorsostriata). In the world of African birdwatching, the males are often distinguished by these brighter colors, which they use to claim territory and attract mates.
While you can find various species of canaries warbling in cages worldwide, they are only truly at home in the wild landscapes of Africa. Seeing one in its natural habitat—undisturbed and free—adds a layer of “rapture” to the poem that you just can't experience anywhere else.