Under the eaves

Our neighbour's porch and carport is supported by flat topped pillars that provide a perfectly sheltered platform for birds.  Right now, even in late September, a mourning dove is sitting on her nest (such as it is) for what must be the fifth time this season.  The doves are amazingly prolific, but their nest building skills are nothing compared to the woven mud and grass architectural creation of their robin neighbour. The building process was touch and go for a while, but the but  the finished product was an artistic masterpiece. 

Three demanding alien creatures emerged.

American Robin's nest under the eaves, oil on panel, 8" x 10" ©Shannon Reynolds 2016

This painting will be available for sale at the 2016 McMichael Volunteer Commitee's signature fundraiser, the Autumn Art Sale  which runs from October 21-23 in the beautiful lobby of the McMichael Gallery in Kleinburg, Ontario.

A delicate balance

I seldom see two chickadees on the feeder at one time.  They typically swoop in and out individually, in an established order.   Lately,  I've spotted two birds seemingly surprised to encounter each other.  Maybe they're still working out the social hierarchy.

A delicate Balance, two black-capped chickadees, oil on panel, 6" x 12"