Kiep and her red bandana

Kiep, wearing her red bandana around her neck, ready to deliver this morning’s breakfast. Her nest is in my studio, on one of my art tables. She grew up here in my studio since I rescued her as a day-old 18 months ago after being abandoned by her mother. She now spends her days outside with all the other chickens, but daily, without fail, she returns to her nest to lay her egg and spend some time sitting in the bottom drawer of my desk, chatting to me.

Artemis in full, glorious colour

Artemis keeping a watchful eye on all his hens (that’s Missy hiding there behind his tail feathers). He has just finished moulting and is sporting his brand-new coat, much to the delight of all the girls!

Missy, the hen

This is Missy, the newest addition to my menagerie in my Studio. She was sick for a couple of days, so I brought her inside to tend to her and now, after a full recovery, she has also chosen the studio as her second home, a place to come and rest for a while, and to lay her eggs under a table hosting some of my art equipment. She’s also very taken with Artemis, Kiep’s husband, and the three of them will spend hours together while he scratches up some titbits for them.

Artemis surveying his domain

Artemis on his favourite perch, a dried out stump, from where he can keep a watchful eye on all the girls. Nothing escapes his attention, especially if Peeps gets to close to any of the ladies. His wrath is unparalleled, flying down in fury, at which stage Peeps makes sure he is not nearby, taking refuge behind some shrubs. But young Peeps is growing up fast and I’m dreading the day when he will no longer flee and turn to face Artemis head on. That’s inevitable, as two roosters with only five girls is looking for trouble.

Monday amid the chaos

A found bird's nest in my collection

in the waning shadow of a weekend :: amid the chaos of a new week beginning :: this nest reminds me of wonders to come . for that I am ever thankful

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