This February, I had the privilege of putting up a display about pigeons at Rebel Heart Books.  My husband and I have a sanctuary for rescued, domesticated pigeons in Jacksonville.  I was also invited to bring some pigeons to story time, which takes place at the bookstore once a month, and to bring them to the store every Saturday from 12 pm to 2 pm.  It almost goes without saying, that the children were delighted by the pigeons – to play with them (yes, some play with toys) and to hold them.  The same enthusiasm appears to be shared by bookstore customers.  Most ended up holding a pigeon (or two) and even shopping for books while doing so.  Many a child (and even a few adults) walked away from a Saturday, wanting a pigeon as a pet.

There will be one more chance (this Saturday, February 25th) to learn about the wonderous pigeon, hold some, and smell them!  (I guess, you will have to smell them to understand).  Pigeons are loving (they mate for life).  They are inspiring (they co-parent equally, produce milk to feed their two squab, co-parent until their fledglings can “fly with their own wings,” and live in peace).  Pigeons do funny things; you will probably laugh at some of their antics.  And, pigeons are smart (they can self-recognize in a mirror, be taught to count to 10, identify words and their correct spellings, among other things).  Despite their current reputation, they have been our helpers since the beginning of human time.  They were our internet and our phone, and many were war heroes.  Don’t miss an opportunity to come meet a pigeon or two (or five) this Saturday at Rebel Heart Books in downtown Jacksonville.