Watching pigeons on busy squares in central Zagreb is an unprecedented joy. From dawn to dusk, they strut about in search of crumbs. Thousands of people walk right through them in every which direction. Some are fast and some are slow. Many are on bicycles. There are children of all ages and dogs of all sizes on leashes of all lengths among them, as well. But pigeons are forever getting out of the way. And just in time. Without fail. From moment to moment, they are facing crucial decisions. To walk or to fly? Hither or thither? Fast or slow? To my amazement, though, they always chose the right thing to do. When there are no other options, they fly straight up to the nearest windowsill. If there is an easier way out, they fly sideways, but never too far. Or they make a few measured hops. When the passers by are a bit slower, they scurry left or right on foot. And their pace is always just right. They can figure out all manner of people and their pets as though they are one with them. As though they are the only inhabitants of the entire city, as a matter of fact. If these words in praise of pigeons in central Zagreb sound a bit over the top, watching them in busy squares anywhere around the world would do the trick. Would that people were as clever.