Migrating birds are one of the many joys of spring, and this spring has been no exception. We have enjoyed many species of birds in our yard, and the children have fallen in love with their visits to the river. The first Sunday we went, we just wanted to spend some time alongside the water. We were not expecting anything other than a little R&R. Little did we know that we would be greeted by flocks of hungry birds.
Down to the water’s edge, for a better view, the boys went. The hungry birds flocked to their hands. “What can we feed them?” They cried, in wonderment.
“Well, I do have a bit of bread in the car,” I told them.
“Yea!” They cheered, running for the vehicle. They returned with all the bread they could find, armed and ready for the feeding frenzy.
At first, the birds were careful to keep their distance, but then a white duck, and escape from some farm, began to nibble from Benjamin’s hands. A Canadian Goose soon followed suit. Next thing I know, they want to bring some birds home!
“Mom, I’m sure I could catch one!” “See, Mom, they like me. This one is eating from my hand.” “Please!?!”
Of course, I understood, but still had to say “No.” After all, “Where would the poor ducky live? We don’t have any water in out back yard, and the ducks like to have water.”
But boys are full of solutions. “We could turn on the hose for it,” Adam suggested. “I could make a pond for it,” Caleb declared. “Mom, this one really likes me. I know it would be happy at our house, even without water,” Benjamin persisted.
Still, I held my ground. When the last of the bread was gone, we said our good bye’s and headed home, with promises to return another day.
I love feeding the birdies like that!!