Pudding, our feral Rock Dove (pigeon), has become a familiar face in Camp Joy’s Nature Center. Curious, social, and always eager to interact with guests, it’s hard to imagine that his story began with a serious injury that threatened his survival.
Found shortly after hatching, Pudding’s journey from an injured young bird to a beloved animal ambassador is a testament to his resilience.
How Pudding’s story started
At just two and a half weeks old, Pudding was found trapped between two barn doors after falling from his nest at a horse rescue. Fortunately, Anne, who volunteers at the horse rescue where Pudding was found (and now also fosters for Derby City Pigeon Rescue), discovered him and brought him to Derby City Pigeon Rescue, where he received the specialized care he needed.
When Pudding arrived at DCPR, he was treated with antibiotics, received regular wound care and bandage changes, and was monitored by the rescue team. He even sometimes would be placed on a low heating pad to help soothe discomfort and speed up cellular repair. Despite the challenges he faced, he quickly began self-feeding and continued to make steady progress.
How he came to Camp Joy
As Pudding recovered, it became clear that he had formed a strong bond with people. According to Meredith from Derby City Pigeon Rescue, “He would follow me around, beg me for food, and consistently seek out human interaction, making it clear that he was highly human-oriented.”
That connection would eventually make him a perfect fit for Camp Joy.
Pudding, present day
Today, Pudding is one of Camp Joy’s most engaging animal ambassadors. Whether he’s flying through the Nature Center, landing on a participant’s shoulder, or helping campers learn about wildlife, he brings curiosity, excitement, and connection to every interaction.
His story reminds us that resilience can take many forms, “Despite suffering a traumatic injury at such a young age, Pudding remained full of personality and never seemed to give up. He is a wonderful example of the resilience and adaptability that pigeons are capable of” (Meredith, DCPR). What began as a frightening fall from a nest has become an opportunity to inspire thousands of campers and students. Thanks to the care of Derby City Pigeon Rescue and the determination Pudding showed throughout his recovery, he now helps create the same sense of wonder and growth that Camp Joy strives to provide every day.
As a young pigeon, socialization and development are especially important. During quieter periods when programs are not in session, he may spend time after hours with a Camp Joy staff member to continue building confidence and positive interactions with people. Some of these interactions may include “playing” video games!
Help make moments like those in our Nature Center possible.
Pudding’s story is just one of many that come to life in our Nature Center.
When you support programs like the Nature Center, you’re helping create opportunities for children to learn, grow, and connect with the world around them through unforgettable experiences with animals and nature. Together, we can continue inspiring wonder, curiosity, and joy in every child who visits Camp Joy.