The starlings have noisily invaded the leafless deciduous trees along the eastern bank of Dixon Reservoir. I listen as their rabble rousing concert echoes across the meadow. Then without warning they stop. I look up, confused with the silence. Suddenly at some unknown signal they begin again, filling the sky now with their gossip of which garden or park they will invade next. When they go silent again, a group takes flight filling the air with their black wingbeats. Some consider the starlings to be invasive and destructive but the truth be, it’s nothing compared to man!
Fully awake now and with my spirit refreshed, I move on to a local coffee shop. I share my story of the starlings with Adrianna while she makes my mocha. With her smile, our conversation and a warm mocha I begin to warm up. I live a good life!
4 Comments
Mark
A wise observation. I often wonder how we can claim such biological high ground on invasive species. They are quite the chatterboxes though, with so many complex vocalizations. I’ve seen some
amazing videos of their song slowed down.
Monte Stevens
Thank you, Mark! Seems the idea that we are not a part of nature or the cosmos leads us to that claim of superiority. Until we comes to a place of humility that will probably not change. I also have seen those videos of murmurations. Stay warm!
Faye White
I think the starlings were putting on a show just for you. Gorgeous sunrise, who wouldn’t sing? 🌞
Monte Stevens
And why not believe that about those starlings. They do show off both in the songs and their flight patterns and murmurings. Have a wonderful day!