Bird Talk

Someone was feeding birds at the bus stop and a large flock of happy pigeons had swarmed in to gorge themselves on the pieces of bread. A crow and a seagull were watching from the top of the bus shelter across the street.

“What is it with them?” scoffed the seagull. “All that strutting with puffed out chests — like they deserve medals or something.”

“Some of their ancestors HAVE been awarded medals,” said the crow. “Decorated war heroes.”

“Get out!” said the seagull, staring at the crow in utter disbelief.

“It’s the truth,” said the crow. “There was a pigeon who roosted at City Hall who claimed to be a direct descendant of Cher Ami who worked for the U.S. Army Signal Corps in France. He successfully delivered a crucial message that saved the lives of nearly two hundred soldiers during the Battle of Verdun in 1918, despite being shot and injured during the mission. He was awarded the French Croix de Guerre medal for heroism.”

The seagull’s beak fell open in astonishment.

“And then there’s a flock at the Market that have family in Trafalgar Square,” the crow went on. “Some of their ancestors worked as carrier pigeons for the Royal Air Force in World War Two. Saved the lives of many crews downed behind enemy lines by relaying messages home. Some of them were award the Dickin Medal for bravery.”

The crow flew off, leaving the seagull to stare open-beaked at the pigeons.