I take a piece of Latvian clay and mould it with my hands until a little miracle is born.

Similar to Latvians, my svilpaunieks is modest but strong and unique. It's a child of nature and you can even hear it in its song when it brings the light and scares away the darkness.

I am svilpaunieks - a rooster from the Vidzeme Highlands' city Madona. The legend tells the tale of the city's name originating from the word "wake up" (modināt) and earlier the only wakeup call came from the rooster. So, in keeping with the tradition I wake up people for a new day, new tasks and challenges.

Every svilpaunieks I decorated with a traditional Latvian symbol. Their variety reflects our rich culture. Let my starling svilpaunieks be its messenger to the world!