Pigeons

A few years ago, I tried to raise a couple of pigeons in Nigeria. I’ll call them elegant and bright birds, and I got them as babies because they fell out of their nests. They were vulnerable, and other birds, rodents, cats, dogs, or even insects could eat them! However, I only had them for a few days before I found and returned them to the pigeon hen who accepted them back. Anyway, the slight resistance they showed when I first encountered them slowly gave way to accepting the help I wanted to give. What graceful birds—totally obedient, when I make them sit on my shoulders, grappling me with their short talons and holding on tight for dear life.

Anyway, the brief muse below highlights my moments with these fluff balls.

Tiny Talons, Big Attitude

I rescued two pigeons who tumbled from high,
Tiny, trembling fluff-balls with a doubtful eye.
They clung to my shoulders like I was their tree—
Short talons gripping tight as if saving me—
Elegant birds… but drama queens? We might all agree!