Birds in My Garden
I live in a bungalow surrounded by a fairly large garden. There are a number of fruit trees growing here, along with many plants and plenty of grass. At first glance, the garden appears very quiet, but it's actually home to many birds and animals that either live in it or visit frequently.
Every morning, I am awakened by the shrill songs of a magpie-robin. The sound is so sweet that I often lie in bed just listening until the bird flies away.
All through the day, I see various birds come and perch on the trees and plants. Some come to sing or rest a bit; others come to look for food. It is always a pleasure to watch them. I sit quietly, and they go about their business undisturbed. I have seen the oriole, spotted dove, pigeon, yellow-vented bulbul, mynah, fan-tailed flycatcher, and various other little birds I cannot name. They sing, dance, and display their beautiful colors. It is quite a treat. On the other hand, there are those pesky little sparrows that come into the house to steal food.
One morning, I saw a white-breasted waterhen sunning itself next to a mango tree. This normally shy bird must truly be feeling the pinch of progress to take refuge in my garden. Sadly, the surrounding area is being developed, and the local wildlife is being chased away or destroyed.
Some people keep birds in cages to listen to their songs. I believe it is far better for birds to live freely. This way, they sing their songs naturally, as they please. It is wonderful to see them fly among the trees. It is far less wonderful to see a caged bird, unable to move more than a foot in any direction.
Difficult Words
- Bungalow: A house that is all on one level, without stairs.
- Frequently: Often; happening many times.
- Shrill: A sound that is very high, sharp, and piercing.
- Perch: To sit or rest on something, like a branch.
- Pesky: Annoying or causing trouble.
- Refuge: A place that provides shelter or protection from danger.
- Feeling the pinch: Experiencing hardship, especially a lack of money or resources.
- Wildlife: Animals, birds, and insects living in their natural environment.