The Pigeon Lady

The pigeon lady makes her rounds
At seven in the morn.
About her feeding habits,
I must say that I am torn.

Along the promenade, which runs
Adjacent to the river,
She scatters seed which pigeons
Know each day that she’ll deliver.

They swoop in great big flocks to feed
And circle in the sky
Before they settle down to peck, 
Ignoring passersby.

When finished with their meal, they roost
On benches and on railings,
Their droppings making quite a mess,
Among their biggest failings.

It’s cool to watch them fly in loops
And strut, like pigeons do,
Yet people lose their sitting spots,
Now flecked with pigeon poo.

The pigeon lady breaks the law
And risks a hefty fine.
To some, she is a hero;
Others think she’s crossed a line.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2023

Poem

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M  Avatar
February 1, 2023 at 11:09 PM
Wonderful poem ilene and l am two minds also….the pure joy it must bring that lady would be so precious and that is a beautiful thing….however all that poop!!???!!! Debx
Gwaltney Bales Avatar
January 29, 2023 at 7:46 PM
I can relate from living in New Orleans, Ilene. Especially at the Cafe Du Monde, where pigeons were everywhere feeding on beignet crumbs. Definitely a nuisance! Excellent poem!
Wolf Avatar
January 28, 2023 at 9:12 PM
Oh, heck. What would places like NYC be without their 'pigeon ladies?' Character will out! lol. Great write, Ilene. Cheers, Gershon
Volumes Avatar
January 28, 2023 at 4:04 PM
Not mentioning that she is the reason that the pigeons pick this spot, l would be writing to the custodians of this area designed for people to be resting. My letter would be simply suggesting that the benches be moved further along where the pigeons do not frequent, pointing out the cost saving a move will produce because cleaning and panting would be less of a sequent. Loved your poem Ilene.
Slaughter Avatar
January 28, 2023 at 1:25 PM
The best thing about "pigeon poop" is that it's alliterative. I'm glad, though, that there are people like your pigeon lady, Ilene.
Lane Avatar
January 28, 2023 at 12:30 PM
It's kind of her to feed the pigeons, but finding a place where their poop won't deter people would be a good solution.
Amadore Avatar
January 28, 2023 at 12:07 PM
Count me among those who think of your pigeon lady as hero, Ilene. But, I must admit I am also not fond of the ubiquitous droppings on any available seating and on walkways and DEFINITELY not any that might (have) landed on me as they fly over. Your poem was very well done and I really liked all of it.
Bauer Avatar
January 28, 2023 at 12:13 PM
Thanks for taking the time to comment, Leo Larry! I am conflicted because she also tosses seed into the bushes, which feeds the rats as well as the pigeons.
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