(This is not my story, but was forwarded to me by a friend.)
It was a fine summer day…
Well, it would be fine, if it weren’t for all those big yellow dandelions cropping up in the lawn. My husband, Don, and I tried to eliminate them from our view, but with no success. They held steadfast. I was reluctant to use chemicals, thinking of possible harm to our feathered friends who visited the various bird-feeders and bird-houses which Don had built and placed around our yard.
While driving to town to run some errands, my mind was thinking on these things, when a goldfinch came into my view — yellow, wild, little canaries I call them. (How can I despise yellow dandelions, when they are nearly the same color as these perfect little birds?)
And then it happened. The little bird flew and hit the side of my car. I could hear the bump and feel the sensation of its little body being hurled against the metal. Quickly I looked in my rearview mirror, and when I saw the yellow feathers on the pavement, I pulled over to the side of the road, onto the shoulder, and parked.
What could I do? I got out of my car and walked to the center line. I couldn’t bear to leave him there, and while there was no traffic in sight at the moment, he could possibly be run over. I gently scooped him up into my hands. He was so still. So soft, so light, just a little handful of feathers. I carried him to the shoulder of the road and carefully laid him down.
What happened next still mystifies me. I have rarely told the story to anyone who could truly envision what I really encountered. As I crouched down beside the panting little bird, another goldfinch flew and landed beside him, right next to me! He chirped as he turned his head to looking at the little body on the ground.
I was afraid — afraid this special moment would pass if I blinked. Was I really seeing two goldfinches right here at my feet? Was it his brother? His friend? Do birds have friends?
About 30 seconds passed and the little goldfinch, who had the misfortune of finding himself flying into the side of my car, got up on his feet. Apparently, he’d only been stunned. But would he be able to fly again?
That question was soon answered. The birds chirped and they both flew off together. I watched to be sure that he didn’t falter and fall to the ground again, but he flew beautifully — seemingly happy in his world.
It was a special moment. How do you ever find the words to really relate such an experience? I only can say that the Lord warmed my heart and soul with this little miracle. Do birds have guardian angels? I would like to think that this one did! And I’m thankful for being there to see and touch nature in all its wonder, including even the yellow dandelions!
beautiful Cathleen. thank you for sharing this. <3
You’re welcome Paul. What a Blessing to be fortunate enough to experience.
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🙂
That’s a nice story, but you have to wonder why a bird would barn-storm someone’s automobile in the first place.
I think it may have something to do with the surface being reflective, because hundreds of birds slam into the glass facades of skyscrapers every year too.
I get at least one every year flying full-speed into my window screens, apparently thinking they’re going to fly right through the house, but they only end up making a hole that lets mosquitoes in.
Seems like odd behavior for an animal that’s supposed to have good vision.
Alot of birds, believe it or not, get drunk on eating certain berries.
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Sweet story. Thank you, Cathleen. 🙂
😉
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It sounds like a nice experience to have tucked away in your memory, thanks for telling it, to have another bird land next to you unafraid must have been exhilarating.
Yes … something I can only imagine. This happened to a friend of mine.
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That’s a really good story, and must have been a very rewarding experience.
I have seen quite a few birds crash into various windows around here over the years, and have had an occasional collision with them on the road. I had a male cardinal (years ago) that continually was attacking the mirror on our minivan. I guess he was battling his own image… he ended up taken out by one of the neighborhood cats. I don’t remember ever seeing any others do that.
About 2 weeks ago I found a dead oriole right in front of my mailbox. (right next to a major road) Even in death that bird was beautiful! (orange/black)
Lovely story Cathleen, I enjoyed reading it! Thanks for sharing and I’m happy that this story had a happy ending. 🙂
Thanks for sharing your experience. I too am humbled by natures creatures and the joy felt when they choose to interact with humans.
One time I was in my sister’s back yard, here in Fresno, when a young hawk crashed into her window and fell to the ground. Checking it out, I saw that the bird was still breathing but totally knocked out. Wanting to get some care for this bird, I attempted to place it into a cage for observation or transport if necessary. The hawk suddenly ‘came to’ as I was about to try such a thing and flew to perch on a rafter in the garage. After a while the bird regained his marbles and flew out the open door.
Turns out that a breeding pair of hawks nest high up in the cedar tree across the street and raise their young year after year.