Diyala family mourns death of pet nightingale kept for a decade

BAQUBA, Iraq — A family in Baquba, Diyala province, is mourning the death of a pet nightingale named Juri that had lived with them for nearly ten years. Family member Mohammed al-Khuzurji said the bird had been part of the household since 2016, freely flying around the home and eating and drinking from family members' hands. Al-Khuzurji said the nightingale, of the Mandelli variety, became deeply integrated into daily life and was treated as a member of the family. Its song and constant presence became familiar to everyone in the household, particularly the bird's parents, who had cared for it over the years and are deeply saddened by the loss. The nightingale's health declined suddenly due to its advanced age, and the bird died in the morning despite the family's care. The family said the home has since been filled with a quiet sadness since the bird's passing.