The Modern Family

The Modern Family

By,

Jennifer E. Miller

While most families include a mother, father, and a couple kids, there's always that one family who stands out from the rest. The one with a herd of children who makes you think, "Wow! Look at all those kids. They have their wings full."

Wait. What?

I present the modern family. It's a quail flock who have hung around our yard this summer. There's a mom, dad, and seven chicks. Sometimes, they waddle right up to our living room window, where we have a feeder, and cleanup after the finches. Other times they hide under the trees or flowers.

It's usually the same routine when they arrive. Dad stands watch upon a fence post or perched on our roof, keeping a diligent eye out for predators. There's one little chick who insists on being close to dad. After he's eaten, he flies and lands next to dad where they snuggle until the rest of the crew is finished.

When the whole family is ready, they line up on the fence. Dad first, followed by the chicks, and finally mom. Their little feet pump along, as though on a balance beam. If I listen closely, I hear low clucks from the parents, along with soft cheeps from the chicks.

Gah! Enough with descriptions. Here are the photos. Enjoy and I dare you not to coo as you look at them.

They have eaten and are tip-toeing their way over the balance beam.

Examining the area for predators.

Waiting for the cue to follow the leader.

Sibling love!

A few of the chicks wanted to take a dip in the neighbor's pool.