Trapped in a Cage

Male Rufous-sided Towhee

The large metal bird cage, located adjacent to the house we are caring for, is approximately two metres by three metres and is covered with two layers of large and small wire to prevent wild animals from getting in and the two house parrots from getting out. 

These days, the parrots are captured indoors in a medium sized cage.

Today, a Rufous-sided Towhee became trapped in the outside cage and its reaction was horrible to witness. In a great panic, the male bird flapped around inside the coop. We don’t know how the Pipilo erythrophthalmus got into the pen, but we could tell it was feeling terror. His captivity tugged at our hearts. 

Trapped in the cage

Frank entered the cage and poured a cupful of birdseed, meant to satisfy the nibblers in the territory, into one of the feeders. The seven-inch finch with his black hood and wings made his way to the food after Frank left the cage.

Its black tail with white wing bars and spots flickered nervously as he perched on the feeding shelf. I was mesmerised by his red eyes. The little bird stayed in the same position until he had consumed the offering.

Somewhat satisfied he settled down and perched for a short while on one of the large branches strewn across the cage. 

Perched for a few seconds

Within a few seconds, he flapped and fluttered in an attempt to escape the confines. In the meantime, we searched for a practical solution to set him free. We chose a large cloth bag and tossed it over him. It worked!

 Frank carried it to the front door and set him free.

We have the great privilege of viewing the Rufous-sided Towhee in our midst because we are sitting a house surrounded by forest, thickets and woodlands. The adorable bird can be found from southern Canada to southern United States and northern Central America. The Rufous-sided Towhee is a Vancouver Islander because our winters are perfectly suited to their habitat.

More about the Rufous-sided Towhee