Bird Watching Downtown | A Funny OKC Walking Story

I’m a daily walker. A crazy daily walker. My Garmin tracks every step, and if I don’t hit 10,000? Let’s just say my watch isn’t shy about buzzing my wrist and reminding me that I’ve failed both fitness and humanity.

But here’s the thing about walking every day—you see stuff. Sometimes it’s inspiring, sometimes it's funny, sometimes it’s weird, and sometimes it’s all three at once.

A Bird, a Puddle, and an Existential Crisis

Earlier this week, after a good Oklahoma rain, I was walking in downtown Oklahoma City when I spotted something unusual: a little bird taking a bath in a sidewalk puddle. A moment of birdwatching in downtown.

Well… “taking a bath” might be generous. This bird was struggling. It flapped, it dunked, it puffed itself up, but no matter what it did, it just looked soggier and more irritated. I had planned to walk right past, but I couldn’t. I paused. My Garmin buzzed, clearly unimpressed with the lack of forward progress, while I stood there, entertained, watching this feathered diva wrestle with personal hygiene.

It was part comedy show, part tragedy, and I had front-row seats.

Downtown birdbath

This little guy is ready to bath

Splishing and splashing!

Why I Walk (Besides the Steps)

People always ask why I’m so committed to walking. Sure, I love hitting my daily step goal and seeing those streaks add up in the Garmin app. But really, it’s the unexpected moments like this that keep me going.

If I hadn’t gone on that walk, I wouldn’t have seen the bird who forgot how to bird. I wouldn’t have laughed on a random Tuesday. And I wouldn’t have taken a detour down a new path, which gave me even more steps (Garmin finally forgave me).

Walking in Oklahoma City

Downtown Oklahoma City is full of surprises like this—public art, small details you miss when driving, and yes, dramatic birds who can’t figure out puddles. If you’re looking for a reason to lace up your shoes, take a walk after the rain. You might not see my soggy feathered friend, but you’ll find something unexpected.

🦩 Thanks for reading The 3rd Flamingo—a blog for art lovers, creative wanderers, and anyone who’s ever made a beautiful mess.

Ready to add some joy to your daily steps? Grab your walking shoes, head out the door, and see what unexpected stories your path will bring. And if you spot a dramatic bird—or anything equally entertaining—share it with me in the comments!