When the mistletoe had just sprouted, the swallow, sensing the danger that threatened the birds, gathered them all and advised them above all to cut the mistletoe from the oaks that bore it; but if that was impossible for them, to take refuge with people and beg them not to resort to birdlime to catch them. The birds mocked her, calling her a fool. So she went to people and begged for protection. They welcomed her on account of her intelligence and gave her a place in their homes. As a result, the other birds were caught and eaten by people, and that the swallow alone, being their protégée, nested even without fear in their houses.
Those who foresee danger are more likely to escape it.
Nº 9The Nightingale and the SwallowA swallow urged the nightingale to come and nest under the eaves of houses, among people, as she herself did. But the nightingale refused, saying…Read the fable →
Nº 248The Spendthrift and the SwallowA young spendthrift had squandered his inheritance and had nothing left but a cloak. He caught sight of a swallow that had come before its season.…Read the fable →
Nº 6The Eagle with Clipped Wings and the FoxA man caught an eagle, clipped its wings, and turned it loose in his poultry yard to live among the hens; the bird hung its head and would not eat,…Read the fable →