Diana Cervantes’ latest photography series explores the symbiotic relationship of New York City’s famous pigeons and the lady who cares for them.

Tell us a little bit about Tina Piña Trachtenburg AKA Mother Pigeon. Mother Pigeon is a magical human who has an amazing heart for all wildlife, but her biggest work of advocacy and education revolves around pigeons throughout NYC. She has a connection to them that is absolutely incredible to witness and is a beautiful reminder that we are interconnected. She’s been feeding the pigeons of NYC since the 1980s and has helped rehabilitate some as well.

When did you first come across Tina? I first met Mother Pigeon during the pandemic. I wanted to capture stories on individuals who love pigeons in the hope of showing people how wonderful they are – I was connected with her through a pigeon advocacy organisation. When I met her, she was just so warm and had a unique way of dressing; everything she wore represented pigeons in some form. Her headdresses specifically have pigeon motifs embedded alongside flowers – which I thought was delightful – and upon seeing the love and care with which she presents herself for the pigeons, I wanted to capture that unique bond. One of my favorite quotes she shared was, “I definitely get a lot of my inspiration from them in my fashion... I’m always dressing up for the pigeons because they are the first ones that see me in the morning.”

 

 

 

 

 

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A post shared by Diana Cervantes (@dee_sea_photo)

What do you think is the most misunderstood thing about pigeons? That they are vermin or “gross” – they are actually brilliant, resilient, community-based little guys that we have abandoned after they contributed much to society. They deserve care – or, at the very least, respect that they belong in this world, too.  

Did you learn any interesting tidbits about pigeons while you shot this series? I learnt that they each – just as cats and dogs do – have their very own unique personalities. Plus, they are incredibly street smart. 

Do you have a favourite photo from the series? Oof, that is a tough one because I love them all – if I had to choose just one, it would be the pigeons waiting at Mother Pigeon’s kitchen window for seeds. There is something so sweet and tender about their trust in her and the safety they feel.

What is next on the horizon for you? I will continue to share stories about human and animal bonds and focus on sharing stories of the more-than-human world. We have so much to learn from our animal friends.