THE EARL AND ECHO TEAM EFFORT

Earl an Echo had a busy summer last year. They fledged their youngster a bit later than the other crows and two of them are still with mom and dad.

One of Earl and Echo’s offspring this winter — like dad, this one poses for Dutch Master-like portraits. He or she also makes little sneezing noises, which I’m not sure is a symptom of something or just a foible

Earl collecting nest lining material in early April. You can see here one of his distinguishing features — the frilly upper wing feathers on his right shoulder.

Echo is sitting on the nest early this year, high up in a large cherry tree and having the extra beaks and wings has come in handy already.

The other day we noticed that a squirrel was getting too close to the nest for Echo’s comfort. A high speed chase ensued with dad and the kids pursuing the squirrel up and down every branch until the interloper managed to leap into a neighbouring tree and escape. I believe he or she will think twice before climbing that particular tree again.

Magnificent Earl, identifiable also by his right leg, which bends inward. Also, his  always dignified demeanor (except when chasing squirrels)

Echo, recognizable by her blind left eye and constant head motion

Tomorrow: Bongo and Bella: will Bongo bong?

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