I went out and about today, helping some friends.
I met this amazing turkey (and yes, I do miss my Mr Twizzler but this chap was just as impressive).
Then I spied this little guy. He was a lovely little yearling mini. The same age as Tiddles but twice as cheeky.
I did not pass up the opportunity to have a snog, a chat and a hug. I had to physically stop myself from hiding him about my person and smuggling off the premises.
Now this, in my opinion, is the best environment for a Shetland pony.
The field was huge and after one shout, lots of mini mares came cantering towards us with enthusiasm.
The very definition of cupboard love – not to chat with us, but to eat huge quantities of silage.
So, feeling very relaxed whilst listening to the gentle sound of munching and the odd-bird calling, I took photos and thought that life could not get any better.
I sent this photo off to my resident bird expert who told me it was, in his opinion, a twite (Carduelis flavirostris). The Shetland name is Lintie.
From the RSPB website – “The twite is a small, brown finch closely related to the linnet, but with a longer tail and stubbier bill. Its back is tawny, heavily streaked with dark brown, and is white below with dark-brown streaks on its flanks. The rump is pink on males but brown on females. Like the linnet, it feeds on seeds year-round.”
So this would be a male then.
I love days like this. Other folks’ ponies are charming and I realise that, even if I never breed or show another Shetland pony again, I still can enjoy being around these funny little equines.
So many lovely ponies on your island. I love the pic of the herd coming down to you. So very very cute.
I just love those browns – on both the turkey tail feathers and the little yearling.
What a joy to call out and have all those ponies come running!