A Sudden Collision On The Asphalt
The monitor lizard snapped forward and slammed the brightly colored pheasant down against the pavement.
Dust flew as the bird rolled over the white dividing line, its vibrant orange feathers splayed across the warm tar.
The reptile darted off toward the dry brush, leaving the bird motionless along the narrow mountain pass.
Cars continued down the winding road, their tires rolling mere inches from where the pheasant lay pinned against the road shoulder.
An Unexpected Stop By The Roadside
A dark SUV slowed to a crawl and pulled onto the gravel shoulder just ahead of the bird.
The driver-side door swung open, and an older man in a bright red polo shirt stepped out.
He walked directly toward the motionless bird, bending his knees to crouch low against the rough asphalt.
He extended his hand slowly, gently pressing his palm against the bird’s ruffled back.
The pheasant remained limp, its head resting flat against the painted white lane marker.
The man reached into his pocket and produced a small white squeeze bottle.
Careful Steps Toward Recovery
He tilted the nozzle downward, carefully applying drops of liquid across the bird’s bruised neck and feathers.
He kept one hand firmly on the bird’s chest to prevent it from thrashing on the sharp stones.
Next, he took a clear water bottle, twisted the cap off, and poured a stream of cool water over the bird’s back and head.
The water pooled beneath the pheasant, washing away the dirt and loose feathers clinging to its plumage.
The man took a clean white cloth and looped it under the bird’s neck, gently cleaning away residue from the reptile attack.
As he worked, the bird blinked and began to lift its head slightly off the ground.
The man supported its chest with both hands, letting the bird feel the steady ground beneath its feet.
Standing Strong On The Mountain Pass
He grabbed a clear plastic container, filled it with fresh water, and placed it down directly in front of the bird’s beak.
The pheasant lowered its head, dipped its yellow beak into the clear water, and took several slow sips.
Its golden crest rose upright as strength returned to its slender legs.
The pheasant raised both wings wide, shook off the remaining moisture in a burst of red and gold feathers, and took two solid steps along the shoulder.
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