...in which Christopher Robin introduces Winnie to a baby blue jay. →[More:]
Cast:
. Christopher Robin: Me
. Winnie: My dog Winston
. Baby Blue Jay: Played by himself

This morning, there was quite a commotion in the back yard. Mrs. Doohickie called me out of my slumber to insist that I investigate what had gotten Winston into such a huff. Upon investigation, I found a baby bird. I decided the most humane course of action was to put it on the other side of the garden gate, but still under the canopy of the tree from which it had no doubt fallen.

Upon my arrival from my place of employment this afternoon, I let the dogs out (so now you know who did that). Again, the ruckus ensued. Winston in particular seemed rather perplexed at the odd creature inhabiting his yard. Apparently the bird had sneaked back under the fence and into the yard.

The bird was sitting very still indeed, no doubt terrified by his yardmates. But there were allies as well, as Momma and Daddy Jay called from the branches as a warning to any who would harm their baby.

I went up to the baby jay, with Winston barely a foot away from its beak. He was still quite confused by an animal of the forest that did not run in terror from him. After all, he is a mighty guard dog, and not to be trifled with, you know.

I spoke soothingly and stroked the baby bird. It did not seem terribly alarmed by this. I tried putting my finger just in front of its feet to see if it would perch on it, and then the story got interesting, as the bird finally spooked and made a clumsy attempt at either a flying run, or running flight.

The activity was more than Winston could stand, and he lunged at the tiny beast. He corralled the bird in his mouth, but I insisted that he not bite down with the sternest word in my vocabulary: "NO!"

Just as in the cartoons, he released his grip, opened his mouth and stuck out his tongue, and the little bird made its escape, quite uninjured.

This was more than Mom and Dad Jay could stand, though, and they began to swoop at both myself and Winston. we decided to leave our young companion to the care of his parents and went back inside to enjoy some tea and honey.

Upon checking later, the baby bird was, in fact, fit as a fiddle. He has subsequently found a place a shelter, perhaps behind the gate next to our house, perhaps behind the shed.

I shall have to ensure that Winnie does not take liberties when it is time to do his necessary business in the yard.