This fable tells how birds, initially content, decided they needed a king, settling on a contest: whoever flew highest would rule. The mighty eagle soared highest, but a tiny, nameless bird hidden in his feathers secretly flew even higher, claiming victory through trickery. Angered, the birds proposed a new contest – digging deepest – which the small bird again won deceitfully using a mouse hole. Though trapped and guarded by an owl, the clever bird escaped when the owl fell asleep (explaining the owl's nocturnal habits and shame). This origin story explores themes of ambition, cleverness versus deceit, and consequences, explaining why the small bird became the elusive "Winter King" (wren), forever claiming kingship.

This fable tells how birds, initially content, decided they needed a king, settling on a contest: whoever flew highest would rule. The mighty eagle soared highest, but a tiny, nameless bird hidden in his feathers secretly flew even higher, claiming...

How The Birds Got A King | Fairy Tales