Faith, Folklore, and Friends

We have been feeding birds since we move here in August of 2002.  Usually, during the winter we have dozens of cardinals, nuthatches, chickadees, woodpeckers, and others that come to the feeders on the deck.  This year, we have none. Nada.  I haven't seen a cardinal since Christmas. We suspect it is because of this hawk that has been hanging around for a while.  Hub saw it chasing a smaller bird a few days ago. Will the hawk stay forever?  Will my birds come back?  I really miss watching them on the feeders.  Advice, anyone?

Rose-breasted grosbeaks migrate through our area from about the middle of April until early May.  They seemed a little later this year. I watched the feeders for days before they showed up.  It was worth the wait. I have been trying, without success, to get some photos since they have been here.  This morning, I managed to get a few by staying inside and not disturbing them.  These shots were taken through two panes of glass, so please forgive me if they seem a little fuzzy.  They hide in the scaly-bark hickory tree just off the deck. This handsome fellow seems to really enjoy the woodpecker suet. I'm really glad I was able to get these shots before they take off for the northeast.  Y'all can come back anytime!