These pigeons aren't attacking you, they just want to hug you! (Photo by Chris Arnade)
Mike Tyson has never tried to hide his love of pigeons from the world, in fact he's practically screamed his adoration for them from Brooklyn rooftops. Now the retired boxer and the man formerly known as Iron Mike has gotten himself a fancy byline in The New York Times by professing his love for the birds in print—meaning it's as permanent as the ink on his face. He writes, in part:
It’s no secret that I love pigeons. They have been a fascination of mine since I was a young boy, and they continue to bring me great peace even now. It’s because they aren’t difficult to understand. Unlike human beings that have the capacity to manipulate and deceive one another, they are basically animals of habit. My birds never judged me or made me feel inadequate. Actually if it weren’t for a pigeon, I may not have been the heavyweight champion of the world. Pigeons were the first loving relationship I ever had.
Iron Mike needs a hug! He also isn't too keen on New Yorkers' hatred of the "flying rats," and asks that next time you pass a pigeon on the street, to remember his story, and to make that pigeon your friend so "you’ll never be lonely." Or maybe just pay for the pigeon's subway fare?
Either way, now's a good a time as any to celebrate the city's unofficial bird, as it's Bird Week! The Times and WNYC are collaborating to create an interactive map of bird-watching spots throughout the five boroughs to help you celebrate, and you can help them out right here.
