Loops in the Stone Bowl

I hopped onto the wide, weathered rim of a dry stone birdbath tucked beside the park trail. The shallow granite basin curved downward like a miniature velodrome, practically inviting an experiment. Resting right near my yellow claws was a smooth, round blue pebble. I leaned low and gave the stone a crisp, decisive nudge with the tip of my beak. It took off instantly, carving slick, dizzying loops around the sloped bowl before spiraling downward into the center with a satisfying clatter. I fluttered both wings in pure delight—every curve of this park has a game hidden inside!