When we first arrived on the farm it was open pasture. Trees surrounded it, but there was not one growing on it. The hawks would circle above, the meadow larks would nest in the prairie dog holes, other species would just fly by, there was no place to perch. Creating a place that would attract birds took some time.
Each year just a few trees are planted, our harsh environment, heat and wind make it hard to get them started. Keeping up with their watering needs until roots can be established is a full time job. It has been ten years since we have called Bryn Du Farm home and we now have a wonderful array of feathered friends. The robins and the mountain blue birds are the first to make an appearance.
I get so excited at their first sighting, spring has officially arrived. The robins envelope the farm, they are in the pastures when I graze sheep, the backyard while I am weeding, following me as I walk down to the barn. Their favorite spot is the compost pile with it's worms. Once the compost pile was discovered they became part of the barnyard life. What I did not realize is that robins are caretakers and protectors of other species. The magpies prey on the very young wild hare, between the mama hares (bush rabbits) and the robins they are out of business. The robins on the ground or in the air will chase them away, I have even witnessed them saving a baby hare.
To the dear robin with his wonderful song that fills the air each spring ...
Who knew you were such were such protectors, caretakers...
maybe you are also watching over me ...
~ Deb
P.S. Today is the last day to enter our current book giveaway: The Cloud Collectors Handbook!
*Last time on Barn Stories: Barney Pays a Visit