The Mourning Dove is not a creature I ever thought about before our first homeschool unit last September. There are several pairs that call our neighborhood home, and a few of them even wintered here instead of flying south. Our feeder was a welcome buffet.

Their call is a haunting song of love.

I was captured by the beauty of the European starling in our lessons. Aggressive, invasive in North America, and so aware of its own striking appearance.

I do not need to hide, I am emperor of the skies.

They exude confidence, wrapped in shimmering tones.

The European Robin is much smaller than its cousin from North American. This little guy is fragile and lively.

Curiosity becomes a common trait in generation that live around people, but experience little danger.

©2021 Mary Grace van der Kroef