Rat hunting has been slow the past few weeks, ever since I started school. Truth be told, I've just been too busy to go out seeking rodents, and it is a rare instance when rodents come to me. However, yesterday I got a chance to do some hunting of a different sort-- rats of the sky. That's right, pigeons.
Living downtown, I get my fare share of pigeons, and they have always fascinated me. There are so many intriguing contrasts between rats and pigeons-- they're both associated with the city, both considered pests within the city, and most would have no qualms with poisoning them. However, it's strange that, although both pests, rats are resigned to the shadows and alleys, whereas pigeons flaunt their presence. Despite countless attempts to deter them, they're everywhere. What's more, they aren't the least bit scared of humans. I was determined to get some nice shots of pigeons in flight, but the silly things wouldn't fly away from me, even when I strolled right up to them. Some waddled slowly away, others just stared at me-- still yet, some of them actually approached, begging food. It's funny to think about-- what if rats were this bold?
Do people fear rats
because they're so stealthy and secretive, because they lurk in the shadows? The fear of the unknown, the unnerving thought that they're out there, you just can't see them? I suppose it's easier to trust a pest that makes no pretense at hiding their numbers. And yet, imagine the hysteria if rats were to run willy nilly throughout the city with the same boldness as birds.
It would make getting photos much easier, at least.
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posted by Sophielynette @ 1:59 PM