Snake And The Bird

Mama Redwing loved her cozy, high-branch nest more than anything in the world. It was woven tightly with dry grass, lined with soft feathers, and best of all, home to three speckled eggs that she cared for with all her heart.

One bright afternoon, Mama flapped her wings and flew down to the meadow for a quick berry snack. But down on the forest floor, a shadow moved. It was Barnaby, the sneaky yellow snake. Barnaby loved two things: taking afternoon naps and stealing fresh bird eggs. Slithering quietly up the rough bark of the oak tree, he didn't make a single sound. Sssss...

Higher and higher he crept, his yellow scales glistening in the sunlight. He reached the edge of the nest, licked his lips, and reached toward the little speckled eggs.

SWOOSH!

A flash of bright red feathers burst through the leaves! Mama Redwing had finished her snack early, and she was not about to let anyone touch her babies.

Before Barnaby could even blink, Mama swooped down with a sharp CHIRP! and began pecking at his tail.

"Ouch! Hey! Stop that!" hissed Barnaby, squirming around.

Mama didn't stop. She puffed up her chest, flapped her wings as loudly as thunder, and pecked at his nose until the silly snake lost his grip. Barnaby tumbled straight down into a soft bush at the bottom of the tree, rubbing his sore snout.

"I'm stickin' to berries from now on!" he muttered, slithering away into the high grass as fast as his scales could carry him.

Mama Redwing landed back on the rim of her nest, smoothed down her ruffled feathers, and snuggled safely over her eggs with a happy chirp. Her little family was safe and sound.