The Flickr Ilustrarportugal Image Generatr

.
The olive trees were furious. For generations, its branches had been cut to make palm bouquets for Palm Sunday.
They felt that their rights were being violated. They were entitled to their complete integrity.
One day, the olive trees decided to speak out. They gathered on a large slope and began to discuss what to do.
"We cannot continue to allow this to happen" - said an old and wise olive tree. "We must fight for our rights."
The other olive trees agreed. They decided that they would not allow their branches to be cut off again.
On the Saturday before Palm Sunday, when humans came to cut their branches, the olive trees refused to cooperate. They bent their branches and refused to let them be cut down.
The humans were furious. They tried to force the olive trees to submit, but the olive trees resisted.
In the end, the humans gave up and left, looking for mimosa branches, as they were invasive plants.
The olive trees won the battle. They defended their rights and protected their integrity.
.
All living beings have the right to complete integrity. We must respect the rights of all living beings, including plants.
The photograph shows two olive trees in a field. The olive trees are surrounded by other trees and plants. Olive trees are healthy and strong. Its branches are full of green leaves.
The image is a symbol of the strength and resilience of olive trees.
Olive trees represent all living beings that fight for their rights.
The story "The Manifestation of the Olive Trees" is a reminder that all living beings have the right to their complete integrity.
We must respect the rights of all living beings, including plants.
Strong and healthy olive trees are a symbol of hope.
It is a call to awareness that we can win the battle for the rights of all living beings.
.
Text & PhotoPainting: ©MárioSilva
.

.
The story of the corrugated zinc sheet chimney, in a Trás-os-Montes village, is a story of ingenuity and adaptability.
The village, located in a mountainous area of ​​Portugal, was a poor and isolated place.
Building materials were scarce and expensive, and the villagers had to be creative to build their homes.
One day, a man in the village had the idea of ​​using corrugated zinc sheets to build a chimney for his house. Zinc sheets were light and cheap, and could be easily formed into tubes.
The man's idea was a success, and soon other people in the village began building chimneys from corrugated zinc sheets. Chimneys were efficient and durable, and they helped keep homes warm in the winter.
The chimney made of corrugated zinc sheets became a symbol of the ingenuity and adaptability of the village's inhabitants. It was a testament to his ability to find creative solutions to his problems.
The photograph shows a chimney made of corrugated zinc sheets in the Trás-os-Montes village of Águas Frias (Chaves) - Portugal. The chimney is made of corrugated zinc sheets that have been molded into the shape of a tube. The chimney is attached to the roof of the house by a series of supports.
This chimney is a typical example of the corrugated zinc sheet chimneys that are common in Trás-os-Montes villages. It is a symbol of the ingenuity and adaptability of the region's inhabitants.
.
The chimney in the photo belongs to a house in a small Trás-os-Montes village. The house is owned by a farming family who have lived in the village for several generations.
The chimney was built by the current family's great-grandfather many years ago. At that time, building materials were scarce and expensive, and great-grandfather had to be creative to build the chimney.
He decided to use corrugated zinc sheets, which were a lightweight and cheap material. He shaped the sheets into a tube and attached them to the roof of the house with a series of brackets.
The chimney has been a village landmark for many years. It is a symbol of the ingenuity and adaptability of the region's inhabitants.
The family that lived in the house still takes great pride in the chimney. They know it is a symbol of the history of their family and their village.
I think they will take care of the chimney with care and thus ensure that it is always in good condition, making it a milestone in the history of the Village.
.
Text & Photography: ©MárioSilva
.

.
Once upon a time there was a little white cow and a brown calf grazing in the middle of a pasture. The kitty was very happy and loved to graze, and the calf was very happy to be with its mother.
One day, the cow and the calf were playing in the pasture when they saw some strange creatures. One creature was a wolf, and the other was a fox.
The cow and the calf were very scared and didn't know what to do.
The wolf and the fox ran after the cow and the calf, and the two animals ran as fast as they could. They ran across the marsh, and the wolf and the fox got closer and closer.
Finally, the cow and calf reached a fence.
The kitty jumped over the fence, but the calf couldn't make it.
The wolf and the fox were about to catch the calf when the little cow had an idea.
The little kitty ran back to the wolf and the fox and began to moo very loudly.
The wolf and the fox were surprised by the loud noise and stopped chasing the calf.
The kitty continued to moo and run towards the wolf and the fox. They were so scared that they ran far away.
The kitty saved the calf, and the two animals returned to play in the pasture.
They lived happily ever after.
Moral of the story:
Unity is strength.
A mother's love is stronger than anything.
The photograph shows a white cow and a brown calf grazing in a marsh. The cow is in the foreground and the calf is in the background. There is a fence in the background of the image.
The kitty is a “Charolais”, a breed of cattle originating in France. She has a white body with brown markings around her eyes and nose.
The calf is a “White Park”, a breed of cattle originating in Great Britain. It has a body with brown spots around the head and neck.
.
Story & Photography: ©MárioSilva
.

.
"Bellis perennis" daisies are small, delicate flowers with white petals and a bright yellow center. They are very common in fields and meadows, and bloom during spring and summer. Daisies are a symbol of simplicity and purity, and their delicate beauty can brighten up any day.
In the photograph, we see two "Bellis perennis" daisies on a black background. The flowers are in full bloom, and their white petals are wide open.
The contrast between the white flowers and the black background creates a dramatic and elegant effect.
"Bellis perennis" daisies are a source of beauty and joy in nature. They are a reminder that even in the simplest things, we can find beauty and meaning.
.
Daisy, mountain flower,
White as the snow,
Loved by everyone,
Beloved by no one.
.
The daisy is a flower
That opens to the sun,
And when the sun goes away
It closes its corolla.
.
Daisy, daisy,
Tell me the truth:
Do you love me or don't you love me?
.
"Bellis perennis" daisies are also used in many cultures for medicinal purposes. The flowers and leaves of the plant can be used to make tea, which has anti-inflammatory and digestive properties.
"Bellis perennis" daisies are a beautiful and versatile flower that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
They are a symbol of simplicity, purity and natural beauty.
.
Text & Photography: @MárioSilva
.

.
little wild flower,
Delicate perfume,
In golden fields,
You are the lilac star.
-
Your soft petals,
Caressed by the breeze,
Swing gently,
Like a ballerina.
.
Symbol of humility,
And sincere love,
Fill my heart,
Of joy and enchantment.
.
Poem & Photography: ©MárioSilva
.

The modern house that the young couple built in the village is very beautiful. Its modern architecture contrasts with the traditional houses of the village, but in a harmonious way. The orange color of the walls adds a touch of joy and vivacity to the house. The tiled roof is a traditional element that integrates into the village landscape.
It is important that young couples like this decide to settle in towns in the interior of Portugal. Their presence helps to counteract the aging of the population and to keep local traditions and customs alive.
The modern house they built is a symbol of hope and a future for the village. It is a sign that there are still people who believe in the potential of inland towns and are willing to invest in them.
This young couple's initiative is an example to follow. It is important that all of us Portuguese do our part to avoid "forgetting" the interior towns. We can do it in several ways:
Visiting these towns and consuming their local products;
Supporting local development initiatives;
Encouraging young people to settle in these regions.
Only in this way can we guarantee that the towns in the interior of Portugal continue to be vibrant and lively places.
Some of the advantages of living in towns in the interior of Portugal:
Lower cost of living: The cost of living in towns in the interior of Portugal is generally lower than in large cities.
A quieter and safer environment: Villages in the interior of Portugal are generally quieter and safer than large cities.
A closer contact with nature: In towns in the interior of Portugal, it is possible to have closer contact with nature and the environment.
A calmer pace of life: In towns in the interior of Portugal, the pace of life is generally calmer than in large cities.
It is important that all of us Portuguese do our part to avoid "forgetting" the interior towns. We can do this in several ways: visiting these towns and consuming their local products, supporting local development initiatives and encouraging young people to settle in these regions.
.
Text & Photography: ©MárioSilva
.

Flowers: Yellow, small, star-shaped, with 6 petals.
Leaves: Thin, linear, dark green, with prominent veins.
Stem: Erect, slender, green, usually branched.
Height: 5 to 20 cm.
Flowering time: Spring.
Habitat: Meadows, pastures, woodlands and rocky areas.
Importance in Nature:
Pollinators: Attracts bees and other pollinating insects.
Food: Food source for caterpillars and other insects.
Beauty: Enhances the natural beauty of the landscape.
Biodiversity: Contributes to the biodiversity of ecosystems.
Other information:
Common name: Gagea de Soleirol
Family: Liliaceae
Genre: Gagea
Species: G. soleirolii
Origin: Europe, Asia and North America
The photograph shows a group of “Gagea soleirolii” flowers growing in the middle of the grass. The flowers are yellow and have six star-shaped petals. The leaves are thin and dark green.
Observation:
“Gagea soleirolii” is a protected species in some regions.
It is important not to pick the flowers or damage them.
.
Text & Photography: ©MárioSilva
.

The rural house is typical of a Trás-os-Montes village. It is made of stone and has two floors. The ground floor is used for shops, animal husbandry, wine cellar and agricultural implements. The upper floor is accessed by stone stairs and has a balcony. The largest space on the upper floor is the kitchen with fireplace. Rooms are small and often divided by wooden boards.
The house is located in a rural area and is surrounded by fields and trees. The view from the balcony is stunning and offers views of the mountains in the distance. The house is simple but cozy and is a great place to relax and enjoy nature.
Ground floor:
Breeding stores are generally small and dark. They have a wooden door and a small window.
The cellar is a cool, dark place where wine is stored. It usually has a dirt floor and stone walls.
Agricultural implements are stored in a space on the ground floor. This may include tools such as hoes, shovels and rakes.
Upstairs:
The stone stairs leading to the upper floor are generally narrow and steep.
The balcony is an open space overlooking the area around the house.
The kitchen is the largest space in the house. It has a fireplace and is a place where the family gathers to cook and eat.
The rooms are small and simple. They usually have an iron bed, a bedside table and a wooden closet.
House Exterior:
The house is made of stone and has a tiled roof.
The walls of the house are usually whitewashed.
The house has a wooden door and several small windows.
The rural house is a typical example of traditional Trás-os-Montes architecture. It is a simple but functional house that was designed to meet the needs of a rural family. The house is a warm and inviting place to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
.
Text & Photography: ©MárioSilva

“Datura stramonium”, also known as devil's chestnut tree, trumpet tree, thorny pome tree, trumpet tree, stramonium tree, demo tree, devil's fig tree, hell's fig tree, wild fig tree, ragweed -spells and zabumba.
It is a poisonous plant originating in Europe and Asia and has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. All parts of the plant are poisonous, but the seeds and leaves are the most potent parts. Symptoms of “Datura stramonium” poisoning include delusions, hallucinations, dilated pupils, dry mouth, tachycardia and fever. In severe cases, “Datura stramonium” poisoning can be fatal.
“Datura stramonium” is an annual plant that grows up to 2 meters in height. It has large, oval, pointed leaves and white trumpet-shaped flowers. The fruit is a spiny capsule that contains several seeds.
“Datura stramonium” grows in vacant lots, fields and disturbed areas. It is a common weed in many parts of the world.
“Datura stramonium” is a poisonous plant and must be handled with care. It is important to avoid contact of the plant with the skin and eyes. If you ingest any part of the plant, seek medical attention immediately.
.
Text & Photography: ©MárioSilva
.

A imagem mostra um pequeno armazém feito de blocos de cimento com uma porta vermelha. O armazém tem um telhado de zinco e está cercado por árvores e ervas. Há uma horta ao lado do armazém, com couves verdes a crescer. O céu está nublado e o sol está quase a pôr-se.
A imagem pode ser interpretada de várias maneiras.
A foto representa a vida rural simples. O armazém é um símbolo de trabalho e armazenamento, enquanto a horta representa a produção de alimentos. As couves verdes são um símbolo de saúde e vitalidade. O céu nublado e o sol poente sugerem que o dia está chegando ao fim, mas também que um novo dia começará amanhã.
Outra interpretação possível é que a imagem representa a solidão.
O armazém está isolado no meio do campo, e não há ninguém por perto.
As árvores e a erva fornecem um sentido de isolamento, enquanto o céu nublado sugere um clima melancólico.
A imagem também pode ser interpretada com base nos detalhes específicos que ela contém. Por exemplo, a porta vermelha pode ser vista como um símbolo de boas-vindas ou de abertura.
A horta pode ser vista como um símbolo de autossuficiência ou de sustentabilidade.
As couves verdes podem ser vistas como um símbolo de nutrição ou de crescimento.
A interpretação final da imagem depende de quem a observa do contexto em que ela é vista.
Não há uma resposta certa ou errada.
.
Texto & Fotografia: ©MárioSilva
.

"Based on the 29th of February (leap year), that is, another day of work, the Portuguese painter Mário Siva, painted in 2024 a work entitled ""Sou do Contra", in which he encourages no extra work , but to rest.
On the additional day that appears every four years, February 29, 2024, Portuguese painter Mário Siva chose to defy the norm. Instead of seeing this day as an opportunity for more work, Siva painted “Sou do Contra”, a work that serves as a visual manifesto for valuing rest and personal reflection.
The painting features a man sitting on a bench, dressed in a dark patterned coat, light shirt and dark pants. The man's white shoes and the way he holds his right arm with his left hand convey a casual, contemplative posture. The background of the work has vertical lines and shades of blue that suggest reflections of a glass surface, perhaps indicating that the bench is located in a public space with large windows or at a bus stop.
Siva’s choice to portray a moment of pause in “Sou do Contra” can be seen as a criticism of the culture of overwork. The man's pose and the surrounding environment, which mixes realistic and abstract elements, reflect the complexity of modern life and the need for moments of introspection.
The title “Sou do Contra” and the representation of an individual at rest in the middle of a scene that evokes urban life are an artistic statement against the current of incessant productivity. Siva's work invites the viewer to contemplate the value of time for oneself, in contrast to the social pressure to always be on the move.
The work is marked by a grainy texture and splashes of color, characteristics that reinforce the expressiveness and modernity of Siva's style. The signature in the lower right corner attests to the artistic authorship of the piece, differentiating it from a casual photograph.
In “Sou do Contra”, Mário Siva not only created a visually captivating work of art, but also conveyed a powerful message about the importance of slowing down and valuing downtime, especially on a day that is in itself a calendar gift: the February 29th.
.
Text & Painting (AI): ©MárioSilva
.

Red Mushroom
Beautiful and showy, a red hat,
With white spots, a royal mantle.
It is Amanita muscaria, a beautiful fungus,
But dangerous, a lethal poison.
.
In the forest it grows, among the leaves,
An adornment of nature, a fleeting gift.
But don't touch it, don't even smell it,
Because its toxin will lead you to death.
.
Observe it from afar, admire its beauty,
But don't be fooled, he's a beast.
A symbol of the duality of nature,
Where beauty hides the cruelest of tortures.
.
So remember, if you meet him in the woods,
Leave him alone, don't disturb him, don't molest him.
He is a danger, a threat to life,
A beautiful but poisonous red mushroom.
.
Poem & Photography: ©MárioSilva
.

The photograph shows a corn field in the foreground, with the Serra do Brunheiro hill in the background. At the top of the hill, there is the Castle of Monforte de Rio Livre, in Águas Frias, Chaves, Portugal.
The corn field is green and vibrant, with the plants growing tall and dense. The corn leaves are swaying in the breeze, creating a wavy effect. The field is lined with trees and shrubs, which provide a contrast of color and texture.
The Serra do Brunheiro hill is a rocky elevation, with a steep slope. The surface of the hill is covered in low vegetation, with a few scattered trees. The hill offers a panoramic view of the surrounding region.
The Castle of Monforte de Rio Livre is a medieval fortification, with a keep and imposing walls. The castle is well preserved and is an important landmark in the region.
Photography is a beautiful composition of nature and history. The corn field in the foreground represents life and fertility, while the hill of Serra do Brunheiro and the Castle of Monforte de Rio Livre represent strength and resistance.
Some specific details of the photograph:
The corn field is yellow corn.
The trees and shrubs that line the field are mainly oaks and pines.
The Serra do Brunheiro hill is made of granite.
The Castle of Monforte de Rio Livre was built in the 13th century.
The photograph was taken in Águas Frias, Chaves, Portugal, on February 12, 2023 by Mário Silva.
The photograph is a beautiful representation of the Trás-os-Montes region, in Portugal.
It is an image that captures the beauty of nature and the rich history of the region.
.
Text & Photography: ©MárioSilva
.

As bagas vermelhas da "Iris foetidissima" são realmente um espetáculo natural. Elas destacam-se no verde da natureza de uma forma marcante e encantadora.
Observe como as bagas pendem dos caules da planta, como se fossem pequenos rubis pendurados num colar natural. A cor vermelha intensa, símbolo de paixão e vitalidade, chama a atenção e convida a um olhar mais atento. Cada baga é uma pequena obra de arte, com uma textura suave e brilhante que reflete a luz do sol.
O contraste entre as bagas vermelhas e o verde da natureza é simplesmente mágico. As folhas verde-escuras da planta servem como um pano de fundo perfeito para as bagas, realçando ainda mais a sua beleza. É como se a natureza tivesse criado uma pintura viva, com cores vibrantes e formas harmoniosas.
Podemos ver também as flores da "Iris foetidissima", que são de um amarelo-alaranjado intenso. As flores complementam a beleza das bagas vermelhas, criando um conjunto ainda mais harmonioso e colorido.
As bagas da "Iris foetidissima" não são apenas bonitas, mas também possuem propriedades medicinais. Elas são usadas há séculos para tratar diversos problemas de saúde, como dores de estômago, problemas de pele e até mesmo alguns tipos de câncro.
Então, da próxima vez que você estiver passeando pela natureza, não deixe de observar as bagas vermelhas da "Iris foetidissima". Elas são um pequeno presente da natureza, um símbolo de beleza e vitalidade que nos inspira e alegra.
Curiosidades:
As bagas da "Iris foetidissima" são venenosas se ingeridas em grandes quantidades.
A planta "Iris foetidissima" é nativa da Europa, mas pode ser encontrada em diversas partes do mundo.
Reflexão:
As bagas vermelhas da "Iris foetidissima" são um exemplo da beleza e da riqueza da natureza. Elas nos ensinam a apreciar as pequenas coisas da vida e a maravilhar-nos com a perfeição da criação.
Inspiração:
As bagas vermelhas da "Iris foetidissima" podem inspirar artistas, poetas e escritores a criarem obras de arte que celebrem a beleza da natureza.
Informações adicionais sobre a imagem:
A imagem mostra um close-up das bagas vermelhas da "Iris foetidissima".
As bagas estão maduras e têm uma cor vermelha intensa.
As bagas estão penduradas dos caules da planta.
As folhas da planta são verde-escuras.
Ao fundo da imagem, podemos ver outras plantas e árvores.
Conclusão:
As bagas vermelhas da "Iris foetidissima" são uma verdadeira beleza da natureza. Elas inspiram-nos a apreciar as pequenas coisas da vida e a maravilharmo-nos com a perfeição da criação.
.
Texto & Fotografia: ©MárioSilva

The morning sun bathes the green grass, caressing the horse's brown back. His blond mane shines like strands of gold as he moves elegantly through the pasture. Tied by a long rope, he has the freedom to explore his little world, but always with the security of being connected to his home.
In his thoughts, the horse feels the soft grass beneath his strong hooves. The fresh wind carries the scent of wildflowers, awakening your senses. He neighs softly, a joyful greeting to the new day.
Your mind is a mix of primitive instincts and lifelong learning. He remembers his mother's warmth, his keeper's gentle touch, the thrill of running free through the fields.
But there is also a certain melancholy in his thoughts. He knows he is trapped, limited by the rope that connects him to the past. Dream of the freedom to run without limits, to explore new horizons, to feel the wind in your mane without any restrictions.
Even so, the horse is grateful for the life it has. He has food, water and shelter. He is loved and cared for by his handler. And, above all, he has the company of other horses, with whom he shares moments of play and affection.
While grazing, the horse observes the world around it. He sees the birds flying freely in the sky, the butterflies dancing among the flowers, the rabbits running across the field. And he dreams, with eyes full of hope, that one day he can also be free like them.
What the horse really thinks, of course, is a mystery. But we can imagine that your thoughts are a mixture of instincts, emotions and dreams. He is an intelligent and sensitive animal, capable of feeling joy, sadness, fear and hope.
By watching a horse graze, we can learn a lot about nature and ourselves. We can learn about the importance of freedom, compassion and connection with nature.
The image of the horse grazing is an image of beauty and peace. It is a reminder that, even in the midst of difficulties, there is always hope for a better future.
-
Text & Photography: ©MárioSilva
.

The cool morning breeze caressed my face as I guided my Casal Boss through the winding paths of the Trás-os-Montes lands. O
The rising sun bathed the landscape in golden light, revealing lush green fields, towering mountains and deep valleys. At every turn, a new discovery, a new reason to stop and admire the beauty of nature.
In a flower field, I got off the bike and sat down on the soft grass. The scent of flowers and birdsong created an atmosphere of peace and serenity. I closed my eyes and took a deep breath, absorbing the energy of that magical place.
Then I climbed a steep mountain, challenging the limits of my Boss Couple. With each meter covered, the view became more spectacular. From the top of the mountain, I could contemplate the vastness of the region, with its fields, mountains and valleys stretching to the horizon.
At the end of the day, I arrived at a peaceful valley where a crystal clear stream meandered through the trees. I stopped the bike and took photos of the serene beauty of the place. The sun was setting on the horizon, coloring the sky with shades of orange, red and yellow. It was a magical moment that I will never forget.
Throughout my adventure, I met simple and welcoming people, who welcomed me with smiles and interesting stories. I learned about the local culture, traditional cuisine and the customs of the people who live in the Trás-os-Montes lands.
I returned home with a renewed soul and my memory full of stunning images. My adventure through the Trás-os-Montes region was an unforgettable experience that taught me to appreciate the beauty of nature and the importance of preserving local culture.
The Boss Couple
The Casal Boss was one of the most popular motorbikes in Portugal during the 1970s. It was a robust and reliable vehicle, perfect for exploring the country's rugged interior roads. My Casal Boss was my faithful companion on this adventure, and without her, it would not have been possible to travel the winding and challenging paths of the Trás-os-Montes lands.
The Photography
Photography has always been a passion of mine, and during my adventure, I took the opportunity to record the most memorable moments of the trip. The photos I took are a testimony to the beauty of nature and culture of the Trás-os-Montes lands.
Conclusion
My adventure through the Trás-os-Montes region was an enriching experience that provided me with unforgettable moments. The beauty of nature, the local culture and the hospitality of the people left a deep impression on me.
I thank my Casal Boss for allowing me to explore this magical corner of Portugal.
.
Text & PhotoPainting: ©MárioSilva

Once upon a time there was a tank, full of fresh, clean water. The tank was large and deep, and the water was so clear that you could see the fish swimming inside.
One day, a blue plastic watering can fell into the tank. The watering can was light and floated on the water. He swayed back and forth with the waves, and seemed to be having a lot of fun.
The fish were curious about the watering can. They had never seen anything like it before. They swam around it, smelling it and touching it with their noses.
The watering can was also curious about the fish. He had never seen fish before. He watched them swim, and asked what it would be like to swim like them.
Suddenly the watering can had an idea. He began to spin in the water, faster and faster. It went around and around, until it created a whirlpool.
The whirlpool grew bigger and stronger. The fish were scared and tried to swim away, but the whirlpool was too strong. He pulled them in and made them go round and round.
The watering can was having a lot of fun. He laughed and laughed as the fish swirled around him.
After some time, the watering can began to get tired. It stopped spinning and the whirlpool disappeared. The fish were dizzy and disoriented, but they were happy to be alive.
The watering can and the fish became friends. They played together every day, and the tank was a very happy place.
And it still is today…
.
Text & Photography: ©MárioSilva

The Barbary Shrike (Lanius senator) is a medium-sized passerine bird, measuring around 17 cm in length. It has distinctive plumage, with a black head and neck, a white patch on the throat and a reddish-brown "cap" on the back of the neck. The back and wings are black with white spots, and the belly is white. The tail is long and black, with white tips.
The Barbary Shrike is a migratory species that breeds in Europe and North Africa. In Portugal, it can be found throughout the territory, but is more common in the south. It prefers open habitats with scattered trees and shrubs, such as orchards, olive groves and agricultural fields.
The photo shows a barrete shrike perched on a dry branch. The bird is in an alert position, with its head raised and its beak slightly open. It is likely looking for prey, such as insects or small animals.
The Barrier Shrike is a carnivorous predator that feeds mainly on insects, such as grasshoppers, beetles and dragonflies. It can also eat small lizards, snakes and birds. To capture its prey, the barred shrike uses a technique called "stabbing". He lands on a high perch and observes the surrounding area. When it spots prey, it flies quickly and captures it with its strong beak. It then takes the prey to a safe location and stabs it with a thorn or other sharp object. This helps immobilize the prey and facilitates consumption.
The Barred Shrike is an important species in the ecosystem. It helps control insect populations, which can be beneficial for agriculture. Additionally, it is a food source for other birds of prey, such as hawks and owls.
.
Text & Photography: ©MárioSilva
.

In the quiet village of Águas Frias, located in the hills of Chaves, Portugal, stands a rural house that has witnessed the ups and downs of a farming family over the generations. This house, once a symbol of prosperity and family life, is now in ruins, with obvious signs of a glorious past that has disappeared over time.
Its wooden porch, once a meeting point for telling stories and sharing emotions, is now marked by the wear and tear of time. The handcrafted carvings, which once beautified the structure, are now erased by time and neglect. The wood, once robust and imposing, is pitted and tilted, a victim of the corrosive action of the climate and the relentless passage of years.
However, despite its current decay, the balcony still retains traces of the past. On the worn boards, you can see marks from the many chairs that were dragged there over the decades. The holes in the wood tell stories of nails that held up seasonal decorations and family photos, now faded by the sun.
In the present, the rural house is empty and abandoned, its weathered stone walls, its broken windows testify to abandonment and neglect. The surrounding fields are empty, devoid of the agricultural activity that once animated them.
Times have changed, and the family that once called this house home is now scattered, seeking opportunities beyond the village's borders. What remains are nostalgic memories and a crumbling porch, whose weathered beauty still tells the story of a life lived in harmony with the earth and the seasons.
.
Text & Photography: ©MárioSilva

The wooden gate is a simple but effective example of a fence that serves to demarcate private property.
The gate is made of rustic wooden slats, arranged vertically and attached to two horizontal beams. The slats are of different sizes, which gives the gate an irregular and natural appearance. The gate hangs on simple hinges and has no latch or lock, suggesting the property is not highly secure.
However, the simplicity of the gate is also its strength. It is a clear and direct way of communicating that the land beyond the gate is private and that visitors must ask for permission before entering. The gate also serves to create a sense of division between public and private space, which can be important for property owners.
The gate is located in a grassy field, which suggests that the property is a rural area. The field is surrounded by trees and shrubs, which provides some privacy for the property's residents.
Overall, the wooden gate is a functional and aesthetically pleasing example of a fence that serves to demarcate private property.
The gate is not painted, which gives it a clean and well-kept appearance.
The wooden slats are worn with time, which gives the gate a rustic and authentic look.
The grass in the field is well cared for, which suggests that the property owners take care of their land.
The trees and bushes in the background of the image provide a beautiful frame for the gate.
.
Text & Photography: ©MárioSilva