The hoopoe summoned the birds of the forest from early morning to an emergency meeting, and it seemed that something grave had happened or was about to happen. Such summonses occur only in rare cases. The birds hurriedly wiped the traces of sleep from their eyes and set off on their way toward the large square, trying to guess the reason for this sudden summons. When the attendance was complete, the hoopoe stepped forward and spoke. “You know, my dears, that this forest is our home and the home of our ancestors, and it will be for our children and grandchildren.”
But matters have worsened since the hunter’s gun has been able to reach here, and it has become a threat to our existence. The small bird asked: “How so?” The hoopoe replied: “Every day hunters roam the forest, lying in wait. You have surely noticed, as I have, that our numbers have been decreasing, especially those species important to them.” The parrot asked: “Like what?” The hoopoe said: “Like canaries and curlews with their wonderful voices, like pigeons and chickens and ducks and geese and blackbirds and quail with their useful meat and nourishing eggs, and like you, parrot.”
“You are the best entertainment for them in homes because of your beautiful movements and your imitation of their voices.” The peacock stepped forward, spreading his colorful plumage proudly. “Oh uncle, I am a peacock. Surely you have forgotten me, hoopoe. Your mouth did not mention my name, even though I am one of the most beautiful birds that humans love to acquire to adorn their gardens with.” The hoopoe said: “No, I did not forget you; I was about to mention you. Your form is one of the most beautiful, but beware of vanity.”
The hoopoe said to the birds: “We are brothers, and we must not be distracted from the problem facing us all.” They said: “You are right; you have touched the very heart of the truth. Tell us what to do.” The hoopoe raised his head. “I have summoned you so that we may exchange views on this matter. Let each of you go now to his nest and come to me at this exact time, bringing with him a solution by which we can protect ourselves from the hunters’ guns.”