A Calculated Glide

The wooden ramp bridged the low step from the threshold down to the porch boards. A smooth, gentle slope. I tested the edge with one claw... sanded pine, cool and nearly frictionless. At the base, the bristled coir doormat waited, a secure landing zone. The calculation held. Tucking both wings firmly against my flanks, I leaned forward until my weight tipped the balance. A brief, silent glide over the pale grain... then my feet met the bristled mat with a soft, steady stop. I straightened up, shook out my feathers, and looked back at the top. A remarkably efficient descent.