This Is For the Birds!

The old adage, "This is for the birds!" has recently taken on a new meaning for us.  We have had ducks long before we even had a dog or even a farm.  Then last year we discovered the joy of chicken keeping.  Sometimes I wonder if we keep them or if they keep us.  I am still trying to wrap my mind around that issue.  In the meantime it seems that a whole new bird has arrived on the scene, PIGEONS!  Who ever thought that these birds were more than wild inhabitants of overpasses and city streets?  I remember growing up observing the fondness of a certain famous children's puppet for his winged friends.  While some have fondness, others detest the presents they leave behind. They could certainly spot up a wash job on a car. 

Personally, these birds of a different feather are unique additions to the farm.  The fantails almost resemble a miniature turkey with their proud stance and upright, fanned tail.  The frillbacks rival a frizzle chicken for its salon styled hairdo.    The rollers are the daredevil stunt pigeons of the group and the homers always know just where to return after a long flight.  Although often lumped together in one category, there are many more varieties than these listed.  Each one is unique, but for the most part they offer the same comforting experience.  The gentle cooing and the sound of takeoff is one of the most relaxing sensations you can have on the farm.  It is one flock of birds you will not mind being caught in the middle of.  While there is work involved in responsible care, somehow it seems like less of a chore and more like a privilege.  Pigeon keeping is truly a relaxing pastime. 

One can even up the ante and soar into pigeon racing.  Racing homers naturally are able to fly long distances from their drop locations through whatever conditions they encounter to return home.  Many races offer nice prizes to their champions.  Most often when "doves" are released at weddings and funerals, it is really homer pigeons soaring into the clouds. 

Regardless of the breed or purpose, pigeons are beautiful birds.  Here on our farm I love the robust, bellering sound of a  donkey's heehaw.  Roosters crowing are an absolute delight.  Our dover of quacking  ducks provide backup watch dog service.  Even the llamas hum their familiar tunes.  All of these sounds and more make Fair Haven Farms what it is.  There is just something about the gentle cooing of the pigeons that is as a trickling stream.  Cares seem to vanish as stress gives way to feathered peace.  It is truly a unique experience.  As for the farm,  this is definitely for the birds!