Behind every rescue pigeon lies a story. Contrasts between the light and dark of life. A simple brushstroke of misfortune can change a bird's destination forever. The racing pigeon carries the heavy burden of physical and emotional abuse. Attatched to their loft and family flock, they are unmercifully taken away from this safe haven and asked to fly hundreds of miles back toward the only life they know. Rembrandt was youthful and foolish to think life outside the loft and the excitement of racing might bring him unexpected adventure. This particular summer day in Chicago the sun was shining bright in a blue sky. Rising afternoon temperatures and the lack of a cool breeze brought a new feeling of fatigue to Rembrandt. His steady internal compass that would drive him back to his home loft was not as strong as he had thought. A drop of water and a morsel of food might restore Rembrandt's waning energy. The smells of food drew Rembrandt nearer to a restaurant ahead. Landing softly and preoccupied with foraging ...a sudden splash of liquid saturated him. Every feather was sodden in heavy oil that slowly made its way down his body and into his eyes. Rembrandt was motionless. There would be no race to run or home loft to return to for Rembrandt from this day forward. Stunned but not completely out of good fortune, Rembrandt was rescued by a kind person and hastily brought to our talented and loving rehabilitator Lee. Eyes nearly swollen shut and body heavy from the oil, our brave little Rembrandt patiently accepted the slow and tedious baths to remove the seemingly molten solution.
Every picture tells a story, and Rembrandt has been restored to his handsome self. A masterpiece of bravery...playful and eager for every piece of attention that can be bestowed upon him. Rembrandt would adore a fresh start in a loving home!
