Guest Post by Heather Hamilton

Since rescuing my first pigeon in 2019, I have come to realize that pigeons are much like people, in that they each possess their own unique personality – exhibiting likes and dislikes, engaging in habits and hobbies, and developing distinct ways of interacting with the world around them.

Today, I would like to tell you a bit about my most recent rescue, Twinkie.

Twinkie is a feral pigeon who was rescued as a fledgling and brought to an avian vet after being found with a severely splayed leg. A kind soul discovered Twinkie, and valued his life enough to bring him to a place where he would be cared for. Twinkie’s existence is a miracle, as pigeons often find themselves in a blindspot of compassion. Twinkie already beat the odds when his rescuer found the heart to invest time and energy into saving his life.

Soon thereafter, Twinkie was brought to the attention of Palomacy. Twinkie was placed in his first foster home, with a member of the pigeon-rescuing community that cared for him until relocating cross-country. “I adore her. She spent so much time just staring at me and napping, she’s such a special little bird.” (At the time, it was believed Twinkie was a girl. Now, it seems that Twinkie is likely a boy.)

In my four months of caring for Twinkie, I could not agree more – Twinkie is such a special little bird.

First off, Twinkie doesn’t know he’s a pigeon. He wants nothing to do with my other rescue pigeons and would prefer to spend all his time with me. He loves to be held and longingly waits for the next round of cuddles. When I have time for snuggles, he’s always ready. He exudes tiny grunts of pleasure as I pet his head.

I am an attorney at a non-profit legal aid organization, and Twinkie is an excellent legal secretary. Because of his splayed leg, he has a special chair designed for his comfort. He is comfortable in this chair or a little bed with a soft blanket underneath him. He will sit next to me, on my desk or on a chair, relaxing and making sure my legal arguments are sound. He only makes a little fuss when he’s gone “the bathroom,” because Twinkie is a classy man. Twinkie is also my only pigeon that isn’t bothered by wearing his pants.

Twinkie’s favorite food is safflower seeds, but they are not very healthy. “You have to eat more than French fries,” I tell him.

I feel grateful to have Twinkie in my life. I am thankful for the opportunity to know him, appreciate him, and care for him.

Eventually, Twinkie will likely have his splayed leg amputated. It does not cause him discomfort, but it does on occasion get in the way of his wing. Palomacy will provide the funds for the surgery, to help Twinkie, as they do for countless pigeons and doves that are lucky enough to be loved by the organization and community of pigeon rescuers.