Friday, May 06, 2011

Friday Ramble - Not

Yesterday was one of those days one wishes had never happened.

We went off to the veterinarian at first light - Spencer was to get his first ever test for Lyme disease. The ailment has never been a problem this far north, but thanks to global warming it is moving into the area, and Dr. Sue is testing for Lyme disease this year.  We are always happy to do anything to keep our little guy healthy and happy. 

On our return home, there was silence in the front yard, no happy chirping or fluttering.  Someone had stolen the eggs from the nest in the wreath on the front door, and the finch parents were nowhere to be seen.  I say "someone" rather than something because it is fairly clear that the culprit was human.   There were no bits of eggshell laying anywhere and no feathers to indicate a tussle.  The nest was intact, not a twig out of place, and the wreath was hanging perfectly straight on the door.  What this bodes for the rest of the summer we cannot say.  In years past, there have always been three finch nestings in the old wreath, but we would not take issue with the local finches if they chose to nest somewhere else in the future.  When I thought of how distraught those dear rosy little birds must have been yesterday, I felt sick.

Late in the afternoon, Dr. Sue called to say that Spencer had tested positive for Lyme disease.  Our little guy will require another test, and it will be carried out first thing on Saturday morning.  I know little or nothing about Lyme disease, but Dr. Sue thinks it likely that Spencer encountered the infesting tick before he came to us.  Rest assured that all possible measures will be taken, but we so wish our wee boy was not going through this.

Will keep you all posted on how things go, but a sad old heart this morning...

13 comments:

Angie said...

Oh Cate, I am so sorry---about the Finch eggs AND Spencer. I have some Finches nesting (actually feeding the babies now) on my porch, and it's been pure delight to hear and watch them. I have already found three ticks on Bayley, who is long-haired and hard to 'look' for ticks. AND he has been acting like he hasn't felt good for a week or more. I probably should take him in. We've never had a problem with ticks until this Spring. Please let us know how things go with Spencer. Sending love and hugs to both of you.

One Woman's Journey - a journal being written from Woodhaven - her cottage in the woods. said...

Cate so sorry about the little birds.
You are making me aware of ticks on my little Callie. Hoping Spencer will be fine..

Melanie said...

Oh Cate, I am so sorry about Spencer and the Finches. I read your post and just cried.
Sending restorative energy to Spencer.

Mystic Meandering said...

I am so, so sorry for these unexpected disturbances for you - especially Spencer. My heart sank when I read your post. Sending lots of loving thoughts your way... And hope you find the culprits that disturbed the nest... Christine

Anonymous said...

I know it's upsetting. But remember.. it's spring.. the finches will start over, have new eggs and forget all about it, the vet will take good care of Spencer and he'll be up and running to enjoy the summer with you!
Take heart, dear Kate.

the wild magnolia said...

It is sad indeed when humans exhibit such care-less behavior. One who loves birds would never do such a thing!

Please keep us posted about the handsome Sir Spencer!

Tabor said...

It is sadly haunting to think of a female bird missing her young and not clear what had happened. Do you not think an animal could have carried them away? Lyme's disease is abundant in our area and a dreaded disease since it comes camouflaged with many symptoms and is hard to heal! Both of my neighbors have versions!

mama p said...

so very sorry to hear both accounts... hoping for some hidden blessing for spencer, the finches, and you.

Anonymous said...

I'm so sorry about the birds and I hope that the treatment for Spencer will be quick and successful.

Victoria said...

Oh, Cate. I'm so sorry to hear that Spencer has Lyme. I'm sending, and will continue to send, lots of good healing wishes his way.

And what kind of sick idiot would steal the poor little finches' eggs? Hopefully Karma will deal with them soon.

Debbie said...

So sorry to read the news of your day. Thinking of you and sending love, sweet friend...

Still thinking said...

Thinking of you and of Spencer. Somehow I feel that the experience may not be so bad for him. He is so obviously very happy in his life with you. Blessings.

Maggie Emm said...

Sorry to read of your troubles Cate - wishing you fortitude and consolation x Maggie