First Christmas present

We know Christmas is arriving when the local hunter leaves two braces of pheasants on our doorstep.
 
It would be rude to spurn this annual gift but as an animal lover I view their arrival with mixed feelings.
 
Having been brought up on a farm experience tells me this is not a good time to be a turkey, duck, goose or pheasant.
 
For the ritual slaughter of birds is about to begin, all in the name of the Christmas spirit.
 
And today the evidence is on our doorstep.