When Whirlybirds Call

"When Whirlybirds Call" by Frank Banta is a science fiction novella written in the early 1960s. This story revolves around a bizarre menace in the form of giant, predatory whirlybirds that terrorize the inhabitants of Featherton on Grimes Planet. The plot centers on the character of Five-gun Charles DeCrabbe, a self-assured bounty hunter determined to rid the town of these feathered aggressors with his assortment of unconventional weaponry and tactics. In the narrative, DeCrabbe navigates the challenges posed by the Coocoo-downdraft-peoplehawk-whirlybirds, which capture and drop townspeople. Initially underestimating the situation, the townspeople have failed to subdue these peculiar threats despite their best efforts. As DeCrabbe sets to work, he employs a series of strategic and sometimes humorous plans, including using robot mannequins to lure and trap the whirlybirds. Ultimately, through a mix of ingenuity and perseverance, he learns to exploit the birds' vulnerabilities, leading to a triumphant departure from the town, where he is celebrated as a hero. The story blends elements of adventure and satire within its quirky premise, showcasing the concept that sometimes the most bizarre challenges can lead to unexpected solutions.