Carl Safina, a renowned conservationist, shares his experience of rescuing a baby owl during Covid lockdown, reflecting on our frayed relationship with nature. He discusses the fascinating mating and parenting behaviors of screech owls, the impact of his relationship with the owl family on his understanding of human-animal relationships, and the contrasting views on community between Western and Eastern cultures. The chapter concludes with the author's excitement upon hearing the call of a new male owl.
Observing and connecting with nature can lead to transformative experiences and a deeper understanding of our place in the world.
Cultivating genuine conversations and being fully present in our interactions can enhance our connection to others and the natural world.
Deep dives
The Remarkable Bond Between Carl Safina and Alfie the Owl
Carl Safina shares his deep and intimate relationship with Alfie, the screech owl. He talks about how he met Alfie when someone found her nearly dead as a baby owl. Safina took care of her and planned to release her into the wild, but unexpected delays caused her to stay longer. This led to a unique bond between Safina and Alfie. He describes their interactions, including flight and hunting training. He also discusses the courtship and breeding process between Alfie and her mate, as well as their parenting journey. COVID lockdown allowed Safina to closely observe these moments. Safina's experience with Alfie led him to explore Western culture's flawed relationship with nature and its emphasis on individualism and winning. He contrasts this with the interconnectedness seen in other cultures. Safina highlights the importance of community and sharing in those cultures. He also reflects on his own personal journey and the lessons he has learned from Alfie and his interactions with nature.
Alfie's Tale: A Journey of Survival and Heartache
Alfie's story continues with Carl Safina's reflections on her most recent breeding season. He shares the heartache of witnessing Alfie call for her mate in vain and witnessing her non-fertile eggs. Safina reflects on the metaphorical meaning of this experience in relation to broken promises and the human connection to nature. However, Safina also provides hope, as a new male owl named Jack appears and begins a relationship with Alfie. Jack becomes a devoted parent, fiercely protecting the chicks. Safina expresses his deep connection and understanding of the natural world through his observations of hatching eggs and the profound sense of unity they represent. He concludes by emphasizing the transformative power of nature and the lasting impact Alfie has had on his life.
A Deeper Understanding of Relationships
Through his experiences with Alfie the owl, Carl Safina develops a deeper understanding of his relationship with animals and humans. He reflects on the unity and interconnectedness of all life, dismantling the Western notion of separateness between humans and nature. Safina explores how other cultures, such as indigenous and South and East Asian cultures, embrace a relational sense of life and see themselves as part of a wider community. In contrast, Western culture often prioritizes individualism and winning over community cooperation. Safina emphasizes the importance of contributing to the well-being of the community and sharing resources, rather than seeking individual gains. He discusses the transformative power of recognizing our place in the larger web of life.
The Power of Observation and Being Present
Carl Safina emphasizes the importance of observation and being present in his interactions with nature and in his conversations with others. He describes the joy and deep connection he experiences by being fully present while observing the natural world. Safina contrasts this with the compulsive talking and lack of presence he encounters in some people. He shares his strategies for engaging in genuine conversations, such as asking people about their interests rather than their occupations. Safina also highlights the value of silence and active observation in fostering a deeper understanding of oneself and the world around them.
Carl tells how rescuing a baby owl helped him and his wife get through the Covid lockdown – and how it renewed their bond with nature. There’s wisdom in it for the rest of us, too, whose relationship with the natural world is increasingly frayed.
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