LA Times Reports “LAX Makes Birds Unwelcome”

A red tail hawk, captured at Los Angeles International, is placed in a sleeve for its protection. Many large birds caught there are taken to South Bay Wildlife Rehab. (Francine Orr / Los Angeles Times)

http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-lax-wildlife23-2009aug23,0,3287218.story

On August 23, 2009 the LA Times reported that the number of birds at and around Los Angeles International Airport represents a clear and present danger for travelers. We must ask ourselves one critical question, “has the introduction of numerous species caused this apparent log jam?”  It is clear that many of the current avian visitors were introduced from other parts of the globe; however, in all fairness, many of the species have been part of our eco-system for quite some time.

The European Starling, which was the focus of the article, was referred to as the “bullet with wings” because of the deadly crashes they have caused; the combined death toll resulting from their interference totaling more than 100 people. However, part ways down the page the writer begins to describe hawks and falcons that also reek havoc in our friendly skies. As roller fanciers, breeders, and competitors we should look closely at both the trapping methods and bait used in the endeavors to curtail the dangers associated with our feathered comrades.

Furthermore, the relocation process, as described in the article, should be investigated to ensure that a 200 mile [possibly less] location strategy ensures that the birds of prey do not return. Ultimately someone should be held accountable for the damage that has been done by certain species that were introduced into our metropolis under false pretense. Lastly, as connoisseurs of an ancient an honorable hobby we should be given our day in court and the right to protect our sport, investment and hobby.

Let’s stop agonizing, griping and complaining–instead, lets start organizing!

More Than Just Roller Pigeon’s

Paul Gomez recently admitted himself into the hospital after a long hike in a local park. Sensibly,  after he felt that things were not right, he checked himself into the hospital. Four day’s later he was released  is now back at home and recuperating. The diagnosis, time to rest, relax and stay off his feet.

I learned of this sudden hospitalization prior to the start of our monthly club  meeting.  While busy at the grill,  ensuring that everyone got enough to eat and that the chicken was fully cooked, Hilly Flowers informed me of what had happened.  My first thought was, “i hope that everything is all right and I need to call him later to check-in” after which i went back to finishing my hosting duties.  Later that evening my thoughts took me to another place.

Paul Gomez has been one of my earliest and greatest influences in this roller hobby. Standing under many good kits of rollers over the years his quest for more speed bordered on maniacal fixation. This “fixation” was surely transferred to me and allowed me to imagine, beyond my wildest imagination, what was possible in our feathered gymnasts. However, there was much more to this relationship.

Paul’s commitment to education was not to be rivaled. An accomplished Biology teacher, Paul could break down complicated science in a way that most could understand. As i walked around my mother’s yard there was no way to escape Paul’s green thumb because before he was a school teacher he owned a nursery. In my own home I called Paul as soon as it came out of escrow and said, “let’s start thinking about plants.” I can also  recall riding around the city and beyond and Paul teaching me about plants and their origins. One day we found ourselves in front of a house that was home to a beautiful Sago Palm that Paul wanted to show me. He had watched this plant grow from a beautiful seedling and blossom into its current magnificence–it only took the plant 15-20 years to get this way.

Paul’s medical emergency gave me a moment to reflect on what’s important and what’s not. It also forced me to realize that while we met because of roller pigeon’s our relationship is built on much more. I can’t wait until our next great debate about roller’s, competition or an assundry of topics that we readily argue. But, more importantly, i am glad to have had the opportunity to reflect, write and share about my friend while we are still on this planet together.

To My Brother,

-PW

Is that a pigeon in your pants, or are you just happy to see me?

According to the Associated Press a 23 year-old man put a new twist in the old saying, “a bird in the hand beats two in the bush.”   http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/28994681  [click link to read full story]

 The man, an Australian native, was detained by customs agents in Melbourne after discovering a pair of eggs in his luggage. Once detained they strip searched him and discovered a pair of birds [live] strapped to each leg. 

While this is a funny story the penalities facing the man is no laughing matter.  Australia has some of the most stringent quarantine and importation regulations on the planet. That said, the fancier now faces $70, 000 + in fines and a decade in prison.

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/21134540/vp/29002565#29002565 [Click link to view news coverage]

That is indeed steep punishment for carrying a pair of golden eggs, a pair of  silver pigeons, and some feed from Dubai to Melbourne. 

–PW