Shotgun

I read Charles Gusewelle's lovely essay about the joys of feeding birds in winter with great interest. As a fellow geezer, I share this pastime with Gusewelle. I'm unable, however, to view all birds in the same light. I admire "my" woodpeckers and male cardinals. But I want to eradicate the foul species that attempt to push these desirable birds aside. If I could ensure that the police wouldn't be summoned and that no neighbors would be harmed, I'd commence firing at grackles and starlings immediately.