Thursday, February 6, 2025

Please Proofread for Meaning

I jumped when I saw it. Walking Lucy through the green spaces around and between the adjoining complexes of the neighborhood, we came upon a dead crow. At first, I simply pulled Lucy away from it, but as we continued on, I thought about how few dead crows we see, considering how many living ones gather in all the trees of the neighborhood all winter long. 

Then I thought of avian flu. I have been following the details of the disease loosely, but I know it is on the rise. The virus can pass between species, and so egg prices are skyrocketing, there have been several reports of contaminated milk, and some cats recently died after eating raw food made from infected chickens. 

I decided to report the crow to Animal Control in case they are testing for the virus, and I found a form on their website to report concerns. Thank you, my screen read once I had submitted. You will hear from us within 48 hours.

And I did. Today, I received the following reply:

Subject: Crow Concerned 
Hello, 

We received your email regarding the deceased crow found near the Windgate Condominium. We're currently not collecting any dead crows for testing. We are only picking up deceased animals that are considered rabies vectors. As precocious, for any deceased animal, do not touch it with your bare hands when disposed of. Thank you for contacting us.

I get it. Avian flu isn't a big thing, and I'm actually glad.

However, I must also point out that this flawed correspondence would not be considered worthy of a Mystery Shopper.

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