Happy Report!

  A few days ago, I wrote about a Great Blue Heron that had found itself in a bit of a calamity.  It had evidently come in contact with some critter that was stronger than itself and was badly injured as a result.  Whether this was from a coyote, alligator or even an (evil) human, the bird was in pretty bad shape.  Its ankle was broken and there were injuries to its body.  I felt sorry for the bird as it appeared to have not eaten for quite some time.  It was nothing but feathers and bone.  Poor baby!  I caught a few fish for the bird and it readily ate.  The bird showed no fear from this person handing out free food.

  I got in touch with the local wildlife rescue and was appalled at their response.  While they leap to help any cute and furry critter, they had no intentions of helping this heron.  I was told "The bird's foot will probably fall off and it will just have to learn to live with the handicap." Wow!  That stunned me to say the least.  This majestic bird was not going to be helped at all.  

  Every day since then, I have gone to the pier just to catch fish for the bird.  It has become sort of a friend in need and I will do everything I can to help it.  I have no idea how to remedy its foot but at least I can keep its belly full.  My brother and his sweet girlfriend are doing the same.  As matter of fact, the bird goes to their place to eat before coming to the pier.  During the warm months, they eat on their porch and since receiving one handout of food, the heron joins them each day.  It flies up on the picnic table and enjoys whatever they toss its way.  

  I noticed tonight that the bird looks a lot better.  Sure the foot is literally rotting away but, overall, its health is improving.  The injuries on its sides and belly are finally healing and the bird is more alert.  I think it is going to survive thanks to a few kind-hearted folks.  

  I will say that the response I received from the wildlife rescue has left me with a thorn in my side.  I cannot see how a group claiming to "help all wildlife in need" can ignore the heron.  How does one choose which is more important?  Why is one bird's life not worth at least the time and effort to save?  Buddy Heron, you can stay with me on the Bayou and I will see that you have food at least.  (So thankful for all God's critters..not just a select few!)