Acting on instinct

I don't know how many generations back Ollie's relations were actually working dogs, but the collie herding gene is definitely still alive and well! 

There is nothing left in the garden that the hens can really damage, and there are some probably lots of pests and bugs that they would enjoy, as well as bolted lettuces and rocket and perpetual spinach, so I've left the gate open so they can come in and browse.  

Ollie wasn't sure about it at all!  He's not allowed on the soil, and gets very agitated if Scratch ventures onto it, he comes and lets me know something is wrong!  Tell tale!  Seeing the four hens wandering over it was a bit of a dilemma for him - he wanted to chase them off, but knew he isn't to touch them.  They didn't seem to mind him at all . . . they were busy exploring and had a grand time - see extras!

Boaty news - Mike is lifting the mooring to bring it ashore for the winter.  Float has been attached at low water and will be brought in at high tide tomorrow.  I trust that this is clear to those of a nautical tendency!