The little bird that died of a broken heart

The most tragic real life love story I know did not take place between humans, but concerned two pet birds I owned about seven years ago.

You could tell they were extremely attached to each other. It was easy to see a sort of bond and harmony which existed between them. I hesitate to say they were two birds 'in love' because that just sounds whimsical, idealistic and fake.

My dad decided one day to build a little nest for them to roost in (really, it was a pile of hay and sticks he tried to shove into the cage). However, upon opening the door, the male bird flew right out and into the air. My dad immediately shut the cage so that the female wouldn't do the same.

Upon returning from school a few afternoons later, I found the female bird lying spread-eagled on the floor of the cage. She had refused to take in any food or water in the last few days. I tried to pour water into her beak, but to no avail.

She died a few minutes later.

I don't know why I decided to share this story. I don't even remember the birds' names, if indeed we actually named them.

Sometimes I wonder if the male bird is still alive out there, somewhere.