Khaleej Times

When birds found their home in mine

- Shruty Ni Shad The writer is based in Dubai

The couple were here to stay. They chose their favourite spot at a corner in our home and were at peace there. Everyday I enjoyed watching them from my room playing with each other, beautifyin­g their small dwelling, gathering food for their survival and living one day at a time. They were on their own most of the time and did not like to be disturbed in any way.

And then one day the boy seemed to be in a confused state as the girl found immense comfort in just being left alone. It was then that I took a chance to get to the core of what led to this circumstan­ce. I was thrilled at what I witnessed then, and the whole perception of the situation took for a turn.

After a few weeks, one early morning I heard the sweetest chirps. It was

They made a sombre home out of the rusting exhaust fan — a strong foundation for their chirping future generation.

of the little birdies who found were snuggly lying under their mommy’s belly finding all the warmth they needed. The papa bird seemed busier than ever as he had a huge brood to feed. The family was having the time of their lives in my balcony.

To think that they made a sombre home out of the rusting exhaust fan and all the twigs, dry leaves and hair that they managed to collect, it was utter determinat­ion and will power to build a strong foundation for the future generation. I was glad enough to have been a part of this simple endeavour, unknowingl­y though as it gave me an insight towards the hardships involved. All creatures are here to thrive and survive the odds.

Now I await the next winter for my next venture. Will it be the same birds again?

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