On most days, over on the western edge of Washington Square Park, you'll find Paul, a man with a few dozen pigeons and a storied past. He's known by most as simply The Birdman, a name which he does not mind, and his pigeon post is an unusual sight, even for NYC. Last week we took some time to get to know Paul and his friends, who frequently come to hang out with him, feed the animals, and see the simple and special connection he has with one of the city's most ubiquitous birds.
Paul recalled the circumstances that led him to his pigeon post: "I lost my job, I lost everything in January or February in the cold. And nobody's here and the only person that came next to me are the pigeons. And then they made me happy and I decided to just be with them because they don't bother me. And I have to deal with landlords throwing me out, taking me to court..." This was nine years ago, and Paul has been sitting with the same flock since. "I knew their mothers and fathers," he tells us.
Paul and his friends have named most of the birds, and we were lucky enough to personally meet and hold Dotty, Cinnamon, and the flock's ladies man, Choco. "You get to know their markings and personalities if you hang out with them long enough," Paul told us. And like any proud parent, Paul broke out photos of the flock and his pals over the years. He tells us he worries about the flock's safety at times, having recently lost a bird to one of the hawks that nest high above the park in the Bobst Library at NYU. The dogs are also a constant threat.
But what troubles Paul most is that pigeons have a bad rep—that they're said to be diseased or dirty or "rats with wings"—and he likes that the positive relationship with his birds can change that perception. As his friend and NYU student Elka Holmes exclaimed, "Boy, they really rely on you, they're going nuts for you!"
Pam please tell Donnie these Hansennes do indeed have a lot of class. Large wings like I've never seen like maybe on a duck or owl. They have a lovely prance, and their Roman noses takes the cake. Love it! Keep up the good breeding Donnie.
Dear Don,
Just sending a gift for my appreciation for getting such nice Sion birds from you. When I get some youngsters from them, I will send you some photos. I am still planning on purchase another hen and cock. Have a good breeding season with your birds.
Received birds this morning here in Missouri. They are safe and both beautiful.
Beautiful female pigeon. Lovely mix of colors, fether quality and great posture. I figured her picture wasn't the best pose. The male is impressive and very masculine looking and I'm happy to say they are calm and get along very well together. Thanks again they are gorgeous....
The birds arrived today got them all tucked in the loft. You saved the best for last I think there nice birds ,,only sorry I didn't buy a couple of the other hens. Thanks alot
Hello. I received the birds today they look great. Thank you very much.
The Hen is here! Awesome bird & I can feel the power just holding her. She is very calm pigeon & that is always a plus. Thanks so much!
Hi this is Nate from Wisconsin. I just wanted to let you know the Andalusian cockbird made it here in good shape today. Thanks again!
Hi Don, birds are adapting well. I like their presentaion & calmness. Looks like they will fit in with my birds. I see what you mean about the BB. We'll see how he produces. Might b a genetic thing & go away when crossed with and unrelated hen.
Regards
Jim
Halo! Just picked up bird from post office. Thank you very much!
Thank you very much for your attention. the pigeons are beautiful and eat well. Im recommending your pigeons to my friends. I hope to buy more pigeons from you in the future. Thank you.
Arrived early and in perfect condition. I have 8 favorites.
