City Birds

A seagull on the railing And a pigeon on the ground Were surveying their surroundings And were pleased at what they found. “I have the better life,” thought gull, “For here, along the river, I have a view and all the food The river can deliver. Poor pigeon has to scrounge and peck. He’s on the grubby streets. He has to dodge the moving feet Of everyone he meets.” The pigeon, on the other hand, Was thinking as he strutted. If he had heard the seagull’s thoughts, He’d likely have rebutted. “I love my urban habitat. My world is rich with choice. On sidewalks, statues or in parks I burble and rejoice. There’s plenty here for me to eat. I’ve got a million friends. With all the teeming humans, People-watching never ends. The seagull, sadly, must rely On waterways for food. His meals are raw, while I indulge In morsels barbecued.” The pigeon cooed and bopped his head; The gull took to the sky, Each convinced that his existence Made him quite a lucky guy.