Irish Timesreaders' observations on nature.
A snail with shell has made its way up the outside wall, through the window of the toilet and up onto the ceiling where it seems to have clamped itself for the winter. I am loath to remove it after such an Everest-like climb. Ciaran Mac Murchaidh, Droim an Tí Co Ard Mhacha
Recently I noticed a mallard duck eating beech leaves from the ground at the water's edge. I presume this is not unusual but I haven't seen it before. Stephen Colton, Co Fermanagh
One of my neighbours has daffodils flowering here in west Cork and they were out on December 14th. David Perry, Schull, Co Cork
We have had two different rabbits in our garden eating the spinach and the parsley and even when we are close they are unperturbed. Are they suffering from some disease? They look remarkably healthy. S Gallagher, Calry, Co Sligo
I think your visiting rabbits are too intent on eating your vegetables to bother moving unless they feel threatened by you. You are remarkably forbearing.
• Michael Viney welcomes observations at Thallabawn, Carrowniskey PO, Westport, Co Mayo; e-mail: viney@anu.ie. Include a postal address.