Peaceful Dove

We were sitting indoors by the fire on a cold but sunny weekend morning. The distinctive call of the Peaceful Dove (Geopelia placida) made us both look up from our books. The day was otherwise silent but for the dove's brief call. Noteworthy and rather nice. (click on title for link)

Swans are breeding

The beautiful Black Swan, Cygnus atratus, is breeding in the pools of the wetlands below our place. Hundreds of breeding pairs, black necks poking above the grass. So much rain.