There’s nothing quite like the thrill of tracking a long-awaited package and watching it move closer to your doorstep. You refresh the tracking page obsessively, waiting for that glorious ‘delivered’ status—only to step outside and find a dreaded missed delivery note instead.
It’s a common annoyance that many of us have experienced, and it often feels like there’s no good reason for the missed delivery. However, an Australian Post worker recently left a note that has people nodding in agreement that, in this case, the reason was entirely justifiable.
The story unfolded when a social media user shared a photo of the unusual ‘delivery attempted’ note they found on their doorstep. The post made waves online with over 8,500 upvotes and hundreds of comments on the social media platform. The community’s response to the post worker’s note was overwhelmingly positive.
Unlike the typical vague messages that leave recipients scratching their heads, this note provided a clear and rather unique explanation: ‘Sorry, [I] couldn’t get to the door. The curlews were losing their s***.’
For those unfamiliar with the wildlife down under, the curlews in question are Bush Stone curlews, a bird species known for their distinctive and somewhat eerie call.
‘Fun fact for anyone that doesn’t know these [birds], their call sounds like a woman being murdered,’ wrote the original poster in a follow-up comment, even adding a link to a video featuring the birds’ call.
The original poster also elaborated that the curlews were nesting in their yard and became quite defensive when they had chicks to protect.
Over 230 comments were left under the post, with many expressing relief that a legitimate reason was given for the change in delivery plans.
‘Yes, finally a reasonable card left out,’ one commenter remarked, while another added, ‘I have to give it to the [post worker], at least it’s not some excuse for laziness.’
‘I am not going to criticise the driver,’ wrote another, while a different commenter chimed in, ‘[It’s] one of the few good uses of the card.’
‘That’s the best reason I’ve seen from a post worker, and completely legitimate,’ said someone else.
The incident sparked a conversation about the formidable nature of the Bush Stone curlews, especially when they are guarding their young. ‘Stone curlews can be scary if you don’t know that they won’t attack unless you pretty much touch their eggs or young,’ one person commented, highlighting the birds’ protective instincts.
The story also serves as a reminder of the unique challenges faced by delivery personnel in the country, where the local fauna can be as much of a hurdle as traffic or weather conditions.
One commenter humorously suggested that Australia Post might need to update their delivery policy to include avian interference: ‘Will attempt delivery unless your birds think they’re in a Hitchcock film.’
While the situation may seem amusing, it’s a testament to the dedication of post workers who navigate not only the urban jungle but also the actual wildlife to deliver parcels. It’s also a reminder to be understanding of the unexpected obstacles that can arise in the delivery process.
So, next time you find a ‘delivery attempted’ note, consider that there might be more to the story than meets the eye. And if you live in an area with protective wildlife, it might be worth giving your local post worker a heads-up—or at least a word of thanks for braving the elements, both natural and otherwise.
Have you ever had a package delivery thwarted by the local wildlife? Share your stories with the YourLifeChoices community in the comments below.
Also read: Australia Post wants to charge more for stamps. Here’s why it has to keep letters alive
