Flash Fiction written by Stefanie Gilmour.
The Story
The end of March was mild for Michigan. Two robins hopped among the new grass sprouts in the backyard of a city residential lot.
The younger of the two chirped “I’m not sure if I want to remain or continue north. I’ve been told there are great opportunities here in the city.”
The older robin asked “Do you want to find a mate and raise a family?”
“I believe so.”
“Then go to the suburbs. This city isn’t what it used to be.” The older robin stabbed at the worm it unearthed.
“How so?”
“Our city is no longer safe for us Robins. I realize it’s only your first year, so I can offer some advice. Watch yourself. For one, there are the Sparrows.”
The younger robin was intrigued. “You know a Sparrow?”
“No, but look at them.” He glared at the group foraging beneath the bird feeder. “Swarming around together in gangs, making noise; It’s not right. They help themselves to the feeder box no matter the season.”
The younger robin looked embarrassed, “I’ve taken seed from a feeder box.”
The older robin scoffed “Well yes, that’s what it’s there for. But Sparrows take all food for themselves. Do you see any working for their food like us?” It scratched at the dirt, “And don’t get me started on the Nuthatch.”
“I don’t think I’ve met…”
“They move down trees head first.”
The younger robin cocked its head. “I’m not sure I follow.”
“What bird does that?! It’s not natural.” The older robin ruffled its feathers in disgust. “Then there are Finches. Do you know the males dress as females during winter? A disgrace to bird-kind everywhere! Do you want your brood exposed to that?”
“I hadn’t thought of it.”
“Well you should. I’d suggest an election to establish standards for bird life around here, but the way things are nowadays a squirrel would be selected to represent us Robins.”
In a flurry of feathers the group of sparrows took flight, alighting in the shrubs and trees. In unity, they barraged the robins with alarmed and angered trills. The younger robin took flight with a surprised squawk, and landed in the branches of a tree.
“Quiet down!” yelled the older robin. “Speak Common Bird so someone can actually understand…”
A cat pounced atop the robin. The younger robin witnessed the cat end the other bird’s tirade, and its life, with an abrupt shake of its furry head.
Cute story Stefanie!
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