Bird Quote by Gerald Durrell
““No sooner were they drowsing pleasantly than the Magenpies would start the food call, one doing the hiccoughs while the other did the piping. The hens would all glance nervously round, each waiting for one of the others to show signs of life. The Magenpies would call again, more seductively and urgently. Suddenly, one hen with less self-control than the rest would leap squawking to her feet and bounce towards the Magenpies’ cage, and the rest, clucking and flapping, would follow her with all speed. They would rush up to the wire of the cage, barging and squawking, treading on each other’s feet, pecking at each other, and then stand in a disorderly, panting crowd looking up into the cage where the Magenpies, sleek””
About This Quote
Source Book: My Family and Other Animals by Gerald Durrell, 1956
Hens, startled by a call, scramble chaotically toward a cage, showing herd behavior and impulsive reactions.
In simple terms: Hens rush together when startled, acting impulsively.
Key Takeaway
Observe how groups react to sudden cues.
Themes
animal behavior
herd instinct
impulsivity
social dynamics
Mood
alert
amused
observational
Type
educational
descriptive
When to use this quote
- zoo management
- wildlife observation
- team coordination training
Key Concepts
ethology
psychology
biology
Questions to Reflect On
- What triggers collective panic in groups?
- How can leaders calm a startled crowd?
A Different Perspective
Such panic can cause injury or chaos.
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