Gaston, 3 (original)(Martinsville, Southern Virginia, USA) (2024) Painting by Elodie M. Richard

''Gaston was found critically injured in early august, 2022. Both of his feet were shattered and his whole underside was scalped. As a lost, young racer, it was presumed Gaston was being pursued by a predator and he suffered these road rash-like injuries trying to escape. He was brought to Great Lakes Pigeon Rescue and there it seemed apparent that a compassionate euthanasia was probably his fate. However, when he was initially seen by the veterinarian, Gaston started eating and preening! So the veterinarian said, ‘it looks to me like this one really has a will to survive!’

Gaston was cared for by the most wonderful foster and volunteer for Great Lakes Pigeon Rescue.

When I inquired about the possibility of adopting a special needs pigeon, I was told about Gaston and another bird and said I felt like I needed to sleep on it. I said a prayer before going to sleep that night, asking God to show me which one I should pick. The next morning when I woke, ‘Gaston!’ was the very first thought that popped into my head.

And so, in November 2023 just 3 1/2 months after his brush with death, Gaston arrived to my home in southern Virginia. His under belly shows no sign of trauma, and despite his little wonky feet he gets around very well. He can even still perch on a wider surface if it’s soft: like a jacket thrown over a chair back.
I absolutely adore this little bird! He quickly stole my heart and took over control of the household! He has free range of the house pretty much all day long although the spot he picked for his personal space is the top of an armoire/bookshelf. I credit his foster for creating such a positive introduction to humans, as connecting with Gaston happened really quickly. He always starts cooing when he hears me come inside from morning farm chores and flies into the kitchen for treats and ‘kitchen baths’ every day when I need to cook! He loves hanging out with our other special needs pigeon, Cleo, who we have since also adopted.

Gaston is funny, inquisitive, sometimes sweet sometimes spice, but always loves a good snuggle at night before ‘going to bed’. I thank God for bringing this special bird into our lives and as such a neat ambassador for how wonderful pigeons really are. «

Gaston’s life changed for the best, he now lives with his human parent Carol in Martinsville, Southern Virginia . :)

Related themes

Pigeons Are No PestsGaston The Rescued PigeonPigeons Of The UsaIn Defense Of The PigeonsDove Art