Cover: A wealth of talent

Little children of Mother Duck Montessori Kelaniya took part in the annual concert which was held recently at the Tower Hall , Maradana.

Principal Mrs Sylvia Samararatne spared no pains in making it a success. The chief guest was Dr Deepal Attanayaka of Karapitiya Hospital, Galle

Back cover: Nature's delight

The Plumed Whistling Duck breeds during the wet season, generally in January to March, although it can be later in April or, in a few cases in May. One brood is raised per season.

The nest is a mattress of grasses or similar material in tall grass, or in or near vegetation as cover. 10 to 12 oval eggs are laid, measuring 48 x 36 mm; 14 or more have been recorded on occasion. Initially shiny and creamy-coloured, they may become stained.

The incubation period is around 30 days. Our cameraman Susantha Wijegunasekara captured this photograph while on a field trip to Wasgamuwa.