#it's like when people say that owls in defensive stances are so cute and fluffy. weird to me

[bluestempigeons]

I keep seeing people on Beau Post say that fluffy = happy and. no. it very much does not. so here's a visual reference for anyone curious.

No puff (neutral)

Smallpuff (comfy) - note the relaxed body language and lowered wings.

Bigpuff (defensive) - note the tension in her body (tense wings, head pulled toward the body). Most pigeons will do this around the nest when they see a threat (in this case it was a chicken who wasn't anywhere near her and didn't even try anything, but Beau is a very defensive nester) and it usually is followed by a nasty wing slap and/or a bite.

You will also see pigeons stretch their necks out and flatten all their feathers when scared and ready to run, but nesting birds will usually pick fight over flight.

#pigeon coos #it's like when people say that owls in defensive stances are so cute and fluffy. weird to me #i'm not like. genuinely mad about it or anything it just made me realize how little people know about bird body language #and a post was born! anyways goodbye now i have to take updated pictures of my little frillback <3