Great Lakes Pigeon Rescue: Giving Wings to Homeless Birds
In a small town in Illinois, a retired racing pigeon named Astrid receives the care and love she needs to live a fulfilling life. Astrid is just one of many special needs pigeons rescued and fostered by Blanca Uribe and her husband, Guillermo Alvarez, at their home in Oswego. Their dedication to these birds is part of their involvement with Great Lakes Pigeon Rescue, a non-profit organization that provides a home for homeless and injured pigeons.
Blanca Uribe, the medical director and vice president of Great Lakes Pigeon Rescue, has always had a passion for birds. Her husband, Guillermo, developed a love for pigeons because of his wife’s dedication. Together, they work tirelessly to ensure that these misunderstood creatures receive the care and attention they deserve.
The organization, founded by a group of pigeon enthusiasts from the Chicago area, operates a shelter in Maple Park, Illinois, which houses hundreds of birds. However, they also rely on a network of volunteers who foster pigeons in their own homes across the Great Lakes region. This network allows the organization to provide care to a larger number of pigeons and find suitable homes for them.
Living with the pigeons has been an eye-opening experience for Guillermo Alvarez. He admits that before witnessing the work done by Great Lakes Pigeon Rescue, he didn’t truly see pigeons. However, now he understands their intelligence, loyalty, and affectionate nature. Many of the pigeons in their home are free to walk around and fly as they please, thanks to specialized “pigeon pants” that prevent accidents.
Blanca Uribe emphasizes that pigeons are often misunderstood. Despite their reputation as “dirty” birds, she highlights their cleanliness and intelligence as reasons why they make great pets. She shares anecdotes of pigeons knocking on the bathroom door when she is taking a shower, as they eagerly want to join in and clean themselves.
The couple also cares for pigeons with missing eyes, legs, and other injuries. After these pigeons have recovered, Great Lakes Pigeon Rescue finds suitable homes for them across the country. While it is always emotional for Uribe to let them go, she finds solace in knowing that these special needs birds are finding loving homes.
Great Lakes Pigeon Rescue’s dedication to providing a second chance for homeless and injured pigeons is truly commendable. Their network of volunteers and the love and care provided by Blanca Uribe and Guillermo Alvarez ensure that these misunderstood creatures can once again find joy in their lives. For more information on Great Lakes Pigeon Rescue and how you can support their cause, visit their website at greatlakespigeonrescue.org.
