In the meantime, I have replied to a couple of local ads selling geese and guineas in hopes of getting some adult birds in. Josh (the African goose) has taken too much of a liking to Dashi (rouen hen). I need to get either some lady geese or more lady ducks to at least get his attention off harassing poor Dashi. I'm not sure if newly arrived guineas will come back to roost with Bert, or if Bert will opt to stay out if they don't come in. I can only keep the barn closed for so long before the other birds go stir-crazy, so the several weeks people on the internet recommend for guineas to be kept in to establish home - won't work anymore here.
I am hoping to get some more winter sown containers out soon. I've been a little off track with other things, but hopefully soon I will get back on track for that.
Tomorrow, Tony, #5, and I are going shopping to get all the things we will need to set up brooders for the chicks that should be arriving next month. Fingers crossed. Any tips or advice would be gladly accepted! I've been doing a lot of research, but it's a lot to remember.
Today the trumpeter swans flew over the lake near the shore where I was standing. I think they were flying over to check out Josh's calls. They're huge, and this time #4 had just come outside and got to see them too. Every time I see them I feel so blessed. Trumpeter swans were extinct in Minnesota until they were re-released 36 years ago, and only through massive conservation efforts have their numbers returned. We are incredibly fortunate to have a sanctuary lake and be able to observe them in their natural habitat. They are gorgeous birds!