The Andy Griffith Show Episode 101: Opie the Birdman

Originally Aired on Sep 30, 1963. Average User Rating: 9.2 out of 10 (105193 entries).

Opie accidentally kills a mother bird with his new slingshot and takes it upon himself to raise the orphaned baby birds. After adopting them with the Winkin', Blinkin', and Nod, Opie faces the difficult task of setting them free.

Please share your comments about this episode, or read the newest user comments below:

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 11/3/2006 8:14:54 PM PST:

"This episode is special to my husband and me. We adopted our son when he was 2 months old. When he was about 6 we took him to the place where we picked him up to take him home. We parked in front of the building. My husband told him he was adopted and told him about this episode of Andy Griffth. While he was telling him this, a little bird flew on the hood of our car and set there until he told him that he was special and that he was adopted. " - Linda Elmore from Huntington, Arkansas 72940

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 11/1/2006 2:10:59 PM PST:

"This episode has special meaning for me, because when I was 6, I lost my temper and blindly threw a rock at my brother, and hit hit square in the forehead, causing a wicket cut and lump. I still remember the intense fear and remorse I felt while waiting in the ER, wondering if my brother was going to die; similar to how Opie felt when he tried to rouse the bird. Fortunately my brother only had stitches. This show demonstrates all of life's wisdom and is my moral and emotional guide as a new father." - Bob Lincoln from Taunton, MA

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 9/30/2006 11:01:17 PM PST:

"This is probably the single greatest episode of any sitcom I have ever seen. Don't the trees sound nice and full?" - Larry from Baltimore

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 2/27/2006 10:24:39 AM PST:

"family television does'nt get any better than this. Every father of a young boy or girl should watch this episode more than once. The best episode. Mr. McBeevee a close second." - dan gribble from hebron indiana

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 1/12/2006 4:05:29 PM PST:

"Amazing lesson here...........tragedies can sometimes make us better people. This episode is unforgettable in my mind. I always hope the trees are full, and that I will take the time to notice them. TAGS is a showcase of what's special in all of us. I hope my children grow to love this show! Good stuff!" - Aaron from Atlanta, Texas

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 12/27/2005 7:47:43 PM PST:

"The final line of this show isn't the "trees seem full" one. It's "Of course, if it bothers you, I'll turn it off." The original ending has Barney buying Opie some fish to replace the newly departed birds. Otis has left his transistor radio at the jail and Andy puts it in the drawer for safekeeping. Barney goes on about how fish communicate, so Andy turns on Otis' radio. Andy lets Barney think the sound of the radio is the fish talking, but then ends the show by saying "if it bothers you, I'll turn it off." TVLand strikes (edits) again... " - Rusty from North Carolina

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 12/8/2005 8:48:10 PM PST:

"This is the best Andy Griffth episode EVER!!!!!!! Thats all" - Karbarn from

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 11/14/2005 1:23:05 PM PST:

"PLEASE TELL ME WHAT HAPPENED TO OPIES MOTHER/ANDYS WIFE..THIS IS THE BEST SHOW EVER. SO HEARTFELT & WARMING..JUST GOTTA LOVE IT." - ebbie from Cincinnati, Ohio

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 11/9/2005 4:42:22 PM PST:

"The "don't the trees seem full" line just might be one of the best lines of dialogue in all of TV history. An absolutely perfect capper to the episode." - Istvan from New York

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 9/23/2005 10:22:39 AM PST:

"One of my all-time favorites! Very touching with lots of humor too! Know-it-all Barney cracks me up! "You know what they say... homely in the cradle, pretty at the table." " - jerry from orlando

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 8/24/2005 4:27:40 PM PST:

"im sorry but this isnt about any of these episodes again im so sorry but i dont know what else to do ive look everwhere for the cd of the songs on the andy griffin show could you please send me a phone number where i can call an order them ive look every where for the darlines and the song that andy and the boys song on the shows if you thank you could email me a number i would greatly be thankfull for it AGAIN IM SO SORRY BUT DIDNT KNOW WHAT ELSE TO DO i didnt know your email adress here is mine pdiscopam@aol.com AGAIN THANKS and have a good day" - pamela murrell from sneedville tennessee

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 8/24/2005 4:05:13 PM PST:

"that was a heart warming story i though opie did the write thing my heart went out to him when he kill the mother bird and then took it upon hiself to raise the babys then had to set them free the shows are heart warmming story and good clean show my husband watches the shows all the time can tell you everyword almost that is said we live in a small town with good friendly people its good that kid still have good desient shows to watch i rember watching the andy griffith show when i was a little girl my husband has got the show on now i know you just wonted to know about that one show im sorry that i ramble on thanks for the old time show WE LOVE YOU" - pamela murrell from sneedville tn

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 8/2/2005 3:19:05 PM PST:

"I have potted geraniums hanging from my balcony railing. A few weeks ago, a dove started sitting in one of them! This seemed very strange until I returned from out of town and discovered a nest in the dove's geranium, and it contained an egg! At first, I thought that the egg was abandoned, but the next morning, the dove had thankfully returned. A couple of days later, the dove was not in the nest, but there was a second egg! The dove returned again and seemed never to leave except once when I saw a second dove, presumably the father, fly up and take over while the usual dove flew off for a short time. This morning, I discovered that the eggs had hatched and had the joy of watching the dove feed its babies! I had just seen "Opie the Birdman" when I found the first seemingly abandoned egg, and I thought that I might end up having to raise the resulting bird somehow. I'm not sure I would have even considered trying to hatch and raise a baby bird if I hadn't seen Opie do such a good job with Winkin, Blinkin, and Nod, and I hope I get to see these 2 doves fly away from the nest, too. I feel blessed to have this miracle of life unfolding right in front of me where I can literally look right into the nest! " - Sarah from Fairfax, VA

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 7/19/2005 8:20:24 PM PST:

"Hey folks, we're reviewing Andy episodes here, not debating how to raise your young'uns! Like Andy said "Each father, or mother, as the case may be, raises his or her child as he or she sees fit". Not exact but close. Anyway a touching episode for Andy, Barney, and Opie fans, as well as animal lovers. I will tell you one thing....The next time I go tiger huntin' I'm takin' my tweezers!!!" - Brian from Upstate S.C.

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 7/15/2005 4:38:54 PM PST:

"WRAL-TV in Raleigh is showing Andy each morning this summer while they wait for a replacement for "The Jane Pauley Show." Last month, they aired "Opie the Birdman." They took the commercial break too soon and clipped the two most crucial lines in the episode. We didn't hear why Andy was opening the window. He just opened it and said, "You hear that --". And they clipped Andy's line about how full the trees were. Hmph." - Brian from Raleigh, NC

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 6/3/2005 9:38:10 AM PST:

"This is my favorite episode; it's funny and touching. We see what a great father Andy is and how he teaches his son a very important life lesson. In the last scene when Andy says to Opie, "But don't the trees seem nice and full." He's telling Opie that you can't always possess the things you love. What makes this so touching is that he is not just talking about birds; he's talking about their own relationship as father and son. We're moved because we know that, when the time comes, Andy will let go of his fledgling too. Opie has not only has taken responsibility for his actions but, has also learned to see beyond his own inherent selfishness. This episode is about love, responsibility, sacrifice, and wisdom. " - John WW from Sacramento, CA

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 5/28/2005 10:54:26 AM PST:

"I love this episode but couldn't help thinking that Andy is a hypocrite. If Opie was smart, he would have asked his Pa why it is okay to shoot at crows with a shotgun but wrong to shoot a robin with a slingshot." - James from Pittsburgh

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 5/13/2005 12:02:12 PM PST:

"I've always said that what seperates TAGS from virtually every other television series is that it has moments of genuine beauty. Other shows may be funny or exciting or compelling, but how many are actually beautiful? This episode is a perfect example, full of genuine warmth and unaffected sweetness. Opie and Andy's relationship rings so true, this is a program to reasure." - chris e. from mount airy, nc (really)

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 4/29/2005 3:10:41 PM PST:

"What is the relation of the "Winkin', Blinkin' and Nod" ? Is that what Opie named them? I do vaguely remember the episode, and that it was a tear-jerker. But I don't remember the Winkin, Blinkin, and Nod part." - Kris from New York

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 4/16/2005 8:08:47 PM PST:

"This program shows that Opie must learn a lesson of not kill things large or small. Its very sad that he had learn a lesson of manners during the show." - s marshall from baltimore

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 3/24/2005 12:37:05 AM PST:

"Deeply moving episode. Probably the most serious half-hour, straight through, in the whole series (known for its laughs), and yet one of its very finest. What a coming-of-age story for any boy, who is ready, to see. The final scene brings tears to my eyes every time, and I am wholly unashamed to admit it. Rank this one at or near the very top! " - Hop from the Rockies

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 3/16/2005 8:29:47 PM PST:

"A simple plot. Life is about choice and consequence. In the short 22 minutes of this show you learn that you can have an affect on other living things. Opie takes the right path of raising the baby birds after taking the life of their mother. Andy, as the father, realizes that there is no better punishment than one's own conscience. I cry every time I watch this episode." - Greg from Glendale, AZ

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 3/11/2005 11:50:53 AM PST:

"Television at its best. What an episode. I love how Opie comes to the realization on his own that sometimes "being sorry is not enough." No spankings, no "being grounded"; just a little courage, honest toughness, and ultimately, warmth from Andy. One of my favorite episodes. " - Dave from Richfield, MN

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 3/10/2005 11:19:37 AM PST:

"The Andy Giffith shows will last for eternity. The talent of all cast members. Most of all Andy...Matlock....These two shows will always be my favorite. I only wish that no matter how old one gets .....we as consumers need to follow our idols in the aging process...we as consumers wish such talented men such as Mr. Griffith would never let aging prevent them from sharing their lives with us." - anita from florida

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 3/8/2005 5:40:15 PM PST:

"andy barney and opie is great in any episode" - mary hughes from chg il

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 2/23/2005 9:53:27 PM PST:

"Andy was too rough on Opie? Too stern? Too demanding? That is the typical attitude of parents today, and its why so many of our youth have no respect for themselves or anyone else. A parent's #1 responsibility is to teach their child right from wrong, and in this and other episodes he does just that." - Just an AGS fan from Tennessee

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 2/16/2005 2:32:25 PM PST:

"WHAAAAAAA!!!!!!!! IT'S SO TOUCHING! IT'LL MAKE YA CRY." - KAREN from Mars

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 1/19/2005 8:45:52 PM PST:

"I rate this one as an all family favorite cause of its drama, comedy and tear-jerking. My kids all cry when they know the mother bird dies and when they find out she had babies they cry even more but are quick to get over it when Opie takes care of the babies and then sets them free. A sensational episode indeed!! Barney adds the comedy as usual which keeps this episode such a favorite." - Jimmy from L.A.

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 1/16/2005 10:37:55 PM PST:

"This is by far the most touching of all the episodes, and therefor my favorite. You can't help but get choked up when Opie tries to get the mother bird to fly after he shot it, with no luck. Of course, there's always a happy ending in Mayberry. I'll never forget the ending when Opie lets Winkin, Blinkin and Nod out of their cage and says to Andy "Boy Pa, the cage sure does look empty." To which Andy replies "It sure does, Ope...but don't the trees look full!" How poignant." - Bobby from Chicago

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 1/13/2005 4:15:27 PM PST:

"what was opies parrots name?????" - just from sd

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 12/18/2004 6:51:23 AM PST:

"There is no doubt about this. This is by far the number 1 episode of ALL TIME. it has humor, fatherhood and touching moments. IT IS THE BEST!" - Frank Johnson from Centerville,Indiana

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 12/10/2004 1:05:15 PM PST:

"For Marsha from Georgia who asked where Opie's Mom is. Someone shot her out of a tree with a slingshot. She ain't comin' back" - pappy from moseley va

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 12/8/2004 6:26:22 PM PST:

"Dan Conroy in Oak Ridge obviously didn't have a slingshot or BB gun as a child - nor competed with the neighbor kids to determine who was most accurate. This episode has such an impact because it's believable - part of the maturation process of owning a slingshot or BB gun is shooting something that is forbidden...and facing the consequences. And, there is a difference between hunting quail, which are game birds with seasons, catching trout and bass, which are game fish with seasons, and songbirds which are not gamebirds and are illegal to shoot. Also, hunting and fishing seasons are designed to protect nesting birds and spawning fish - no sportsman would take a bird on a nest. Hawk swooping down to kill baby birds? Dan, you know as much about comedy as you do about hunting, fishing, and using a slingshot! Re: Andy too hard on Opie? Yeah, he should have popped a Ritalin in his mouth and sent him to his room to play with his X-Box...why should Andy try to parent when it's easier just to blame everything else, instead of assuming personal responsibility for your actions? The sting of a couple of swats is gone in no time, but teaching a child to be accountable for his/her actions, however more painful it is, is a lesson not lost. As previously stated, this episode is the personal favorite of Andy, Don, and Ron - for obvious reasons. " - Mark from Davis, California

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 11/29/2004 11:31:57 PM PST:

"I'm 39 and finally got to see "Opie the Birdman" tonight. My wife and I became parents 4 months ago to a son. I've always heard from my brother who is 10 years older how special this episode is. I had tears from the time Ron Howard cried when he hit the bird thru the time of him letting the baby birds fly away. Being a father now, I cannot believe how many things I've picked up from Andy Griffith about being a father since i started taping TAGS on TV Land about a year ago. Whoever says one cannot learn about life and morals from television has not watched TAGS. If anyone associated with the show from the actors to the writers, etc. are fortunate enough to read this, I say thank you from the bottom of my heart for creating such a special show. I've saved this episode on tape for my son Brady when he gets old enough to understand and appreciate it. Thank you Andy Griffith!!!" - Loren Kacon from Calumet, Mn

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 10/3/2004 12:27:29 PM PST:

" I agree with Megan and topcat that Andy was too harsh with Opie .He did have too little patience with Opie and when you consider what he put up with from everyone around him, topcat said it all better than I could. I know this is a favorite with alot of fans and with the cast but this episode is in my humble opinion highly overrated and even some of the funnier moments don't save it for me." - Kellie from California

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 10/3/2004 12:26:15 PM PST:

" I agree with Megan and topcat that Andy was too harsh with Opie .He did have too little patience with Opie and when you consider what he put up with from everyone around him, topcat said it all better than I could. I know this is a favorite with alot of fans and with the cast but this episode is in my humble opinion is highly overrated and even some of the funnier moments don't save it for me." - Kellie from California

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 10/3/2004 12:25:08 PM PST:

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 9/28/2004 8:41:59 AM PST:

"I loved this episode as did everyone else, it seems, except Dan Conroy from Oak Ridge who wanted a hawk to swoop down and sink its claws into Winkin', Blinkin', and Nod as Opie let them out of their cage. Dan, get a grip! Maybe you need to stick with watching Sopranos." - Dave Goss from Collierville, TN

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 8/16/2004 5:06:02 PM PST:

"This may be the second best episode ever of TAGS. From Opie's genuine distress over accidentally killing the mother bird to the famous classic final line "The cage sure seems empty, but don't the trees seem nice and full" this is another episode that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of this classic sitcom. If you don't feel for Opie when he cries over the dead mother bird, you have a heart of stone. Ronny Howard was never better than in this episode (including Happy Days)." - Bill from Alto, MI

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 8/1/2004 8:05:10 PM PST:

"Opie Taylor, at the age of 7 (?) picked off a mama bird in a tree from 50 feet away and at a height of 20 feet, without hitting a baby bird or even plunking a leaf. Holy birdseye! Nice shot, boy! Remember when Andy and Barney go to the "big city" and Barney "catches" a jewel thief? Sheriff Taylor invites a cop to come quail hunting in Mayberry. Evidently, it's OK for the Sheriff to shoot mama birds with a shotgun, but the boy's accidental shot is a life's lesson in animal husbandry. What hypocrisy! Pullin' big ol' trouts 'n' bass from the secret water hole is dandy, but birds? I always hoped a huge hawk swooped down as Blinkin' or Nod or Winkin' was hand released by Opie, clutching the birdling in its talons. SQQUUUAAAWWWWWKKK! SWOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOP! Well, Ope, that's a right lesson there. A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush. Don't the hawks seem so full though?" - Dan Conroy from Oak Ridge, TN

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 8/1/2004 9:30:02 AM PST:

"Please run out right this very minute and purchase "Return to Mayberry" which is a book used in many churchs and Sunday Schools who use episodes to teach morals and values....This episode is perhaps one of the finest moments in television history...and continues to touch the heart of millions more each time it shown. " - Mary from Texas

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 7/24/2004 3:17:44 PM PST:

"The TAGS cast and crew ranked this as the number on episode on TV Land's Top Ten. They said it was Andy Griffith's, Ron Howard's, and Don Knotts's favorite episode." - Detective Barney Fife from Raleigh, NC

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 7/13/2004 8:04:06 AM PST:

"I watched this episode the week before my oldest was to leave for college 600 miles away. Like a lot of moms, I was having a very difficult time "pre" adjusting to the situation. Even though I'd seen it a number of times, watching it that day helped make the "release" of my daughter much easier. Andy showed Opie that doing what is best for someone can be heartbreaking, but the results well worth it. I love this episode " - Barbara from Illinois farm

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 7/7/2004 3:14:16 PM PST:

" I know this episode always rates as one of the most popular,but I found it to be just too sad. It always bothered me how harsh Andy could be on Opie sometimes.Opie was probably the most level headed and responsible member of Mayberry besides Andy,but Andy had less patience for him than anyone else.Barney could shoot his gun into the floor,Aunt Bea could go hysterical over nothing,Gomer could drop rifles off the courthouse roof,Otis could throw up all over the cell,and Andy would just roll his eyes and quietly straighten things out.But if Opie so much as gets a C+ on his History Quiz,Andy starts reaching for his belt." - topcat from canada

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 6/11/2004 3:09:12 PM PST:

" I have a question...... What happened to Andy's wife? Opie's mother. Please e-mail and let me know." - Marsha Lee from Hoboken Ga.

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 5/19/2004 5:20:48 PM PST:

"This is one of the best episodes. I just love that last line, "...but don't the trees seem nice and full." Great episode, and certainly deserves to be here!" - Matt from

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 3/1/2004 8:50:10 AM PST:

"I love it when Opie throws the dead bird to fly away..."Fly Away Bird" THUNK" - Tim from Mississippi

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 1/23/2004 8:18:36 PM PST:

"I JUST HAVE 1 THING TO SAY MAN IN A HURRY SHOULD BE HERE." - ANDY JONES from

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 12/20/2003 11:25:20 AM PST:

"This was an excellent episode, it taught us that we all need to take responsibility for our actions. Also I was wathing the renunion show that aird last month and Ron Howard said that of all the shows this one people still ask him about the most. " - Jeannie from Ontario Canada

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 11/24/2003 9:39:09 AM PST:

"On a local radio call-in show, some lady said that Opie got whipped in this episode. That didn't happen. He just had to listen to the baby birds "chirpin' for their mama who ain't comin' back." This is why women shouldn't be allowed on the phone, except for 1-900 services. I have spoken." - Adam Francis Royals from High Point, NC

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 11/14/2003 9:03:45 AM PST:

"Top ten? Are you kidding? This episode is too sad. It has some funny parts in it, but having to endure the bird's death is just too sad for me." - Davy Campbell from Pinson, Alabama

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 11/12/2003 12:20:36 PM PST:

"This one gives me goose bumps! Excellent show. All parents should model themselves after this episode. Cage sure looks empty Paw. Yeah but don't the trees seem nice and full?!" - Erik from Greensboro, NC

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 11/10/2003 5:04:15 PM PST:

"I truly love the Andy Griffith Show...I watch it whenever I can. This is my favorite show. When I was young I thought opening the windows was cruel. As I grew older I realized that there was only one way to make Opie feel the loss he caused those birds...truly something missing from today's society. Thisis my top TV Show of all time." - Diana from Larchmont, NY

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 11/1/2003 11:40:45 AM PST:

"this show is a wonderful example of parenting." - gayle peck from halifax,ma

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 10/16/2003 3:56:08 PM PST:

""Wink will tell Blink, and Blink will tell Nod, and Nod will tell Barney, and Barney'll tell you."" - Megan from

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 9/3/2003 8:04:47 PM PST:

"My all time favorite Andy episode. I have a 22 month old son and have a few of the Andy Griffith episodes on tape, but I really want to get my hands on this particular show. I cannot tell you how many times over the last 20 years that I came across this episode and stopped dead in my tracks with whatever I was doing, just to watch this show.How many shows, that you have seen 12 or more times can you say that about? There was no Dad in the house when I was growing up and Andy Griffith was always what I dreamed a father should be...."but don't the trees seem nice and full". " - Catherine from Lancaster,Pa.

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 8/27/2003 4:48:55 PM PST:

"Just consider what all is packed into this episode Drama,Comedy,Life Lesson in Morality, and taking RESPONSIBILTY for ones action, this is truely a work of art and should be studied by anyone interested in TV writin or acting..." - Darrell from Lawrenceville Ga.

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 7/17/2003 4:00:22 PM PST:

"I LOVE THESE SHOWS IN THIS EPISODE BARNEY ALSO TEACHES US THAT WE NEED KEEN EYES AND STRONG PINCHING FINGERS, HE ALSO NOTES TO ANDY THAT HE WAS BORN WITH A SLINGSHOT IN HIS HAND. THIS IS TRULY THE BEST EPISODE AND IS FULL OF LAUGHTER AND TEARS AS WELL. " - MELANIE from ALABAMA

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 7/17/2003 4:00:16 PM PST:

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 7/11/2003 9:27:27 AM PST:

"Ya see, Ope, Winkin' will tell Blinkin' , Blinkin' will tell Nod, Nob will tell Barney, and Barney can tell us. I cried like a five year old girl the last time I saw this episode." - Adam Francis Royals from Greensboro, NC

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 5/14/2003 12:05:41 AM PST:

"The above poster should be in Scott's english class." - Dave W from Here

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 5/13/2003 5:19:55 PM PST:

"TO SCOTT THE TEACHER IF YOU WATCH THE EPISODE AS MUCH AS YOU SAY YOU WOULD SEE AN APOLAGY IS ALL THAT IS NEEDED. IN CASE YOU FORGOT IT WAS AN ACCEDENT. HOWEVER YOU ARE RIGHT THAT MOST CHILDREN TODAY DO THINK THAT A FIVE MINUTE TIME OUT AND AN APOLGY FIXES EVERYTHING" - thomas vanettes from west covina ca

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 5/5/2003 11:48:13 AM PST:

"I teach 7th grade English and Enrichment. I use Opie and the Birdman show to teach a lesson about responsibility to my students. They often think that an apology will "fix" everything, but this show teaches them that they must take steps to do something besides apologize. I love this show." - Scott from Centre, AL

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 5/3/2003 1:26:21 PM PST:

"THIS IS ONE OF THE FEW EPISODES I REALLY DON'T LIKE ANDY WOULD HAVE BEEN BETTER TO "GIVE THE BOY A WHOOPIN" RATHER THE FORCE HIM TO HERE THE BABY BIRDS CRY. HE IS LUCKY OPIE DIDN'T COMMIT SUEICIDE" - thomas vanettes from west covina ca

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 2/27/2003 5:17:33 PM PST:

" "...But don't the trees seem nice and full" is a creed we should all live by. Yes, Andy, they do." - ralph from radford, va.

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 2/25/2003 6:51:36 AM PST:

"I like this episode, don't get me wrong, but it's a little too painful for me to enjoy it fully. I like it once it gets going, I guess look forward to a happy 30 minutes every time T.A.G.S. comes on that I am somewhat let down when this one airs. I would compare it to Braveheart being my favorite movie ever, but rarely watching it due to the pain; where something like Dumb & Dumber or Uncle Buck I've seen several times. This does have my favorite line of the entire series, "Aren't the trees nice & full?" " - Bart Stanfield from Tuscaloosa, AL

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 2/20/2003 10:38:02 AM PST:

"Like most of you, this is my favorite episode. I'm 42 and I still get a tear in my eye when Opie is laying in bed listening to the chirps of the motherless birds. One thing that stands out to me is the background music that plays during the more melancholy episodes. The show was so well done and the music adds a lot of emotion to the episodes." - Brad from Texas

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 2/14/2003 6:04:29 AM PST:

"Most likely the best episode ever. The moral of the story is, listen to your father, and when you screw up take care of your resposibilities" - Big David D from Mississippi

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 1/8/2003 9:17:58 PM PST:

"This episode is the absolute zenith of all of the Andy Griffith episodes! How much more true to life does it get? A young boy disobeys his fathers wisdom about the "dangers" of a slingshot, then tries to hide it when he kills the bird. What a lesson to all fathers to see Andy use the situation to teach his son the resposibility for his actions in a way that displays little anger and much compassion. (What a better world we would live in today if everyone took responsibility for their actions!) The comedy thats interspersed throughout the episode is hilarious. I still get a tear everytime I see this episode. Andy's final line "but don't the trees seem nice and full is heartwarmingly characteristic of his ability to always see the best in a situation. Simply the best written episode, period!" - Mike from Illinois

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 11/23/2002 11:53:06 PM PST:

"Well I recently seen this episode and I thought it was great. It is a 10 in my book. But I must say that all of the episodes that I have ever seen are all 10's to me. I love ALL the character's they acted so well together. You can show these show's to anyone they are nice and clean, unlike the garbage they are presenting to us now days. If it's not G or PG I won't watch it. I hope they continue to run these for years to come so that when I have kids they can see what good television used to be like." - KJ from Peoria, ILLINOIS

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 10/11/2002 8:52:55 PM PST:

"Sometimes it all comes together so well and so true and so heartfelt that it transcends being just a television program but a reflection of our lives and we are there "feeling" what they are going through. Opie the Birdman was a magical moment for me. It brought me back to very sad and very happy memories." - pete from illinois

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 10/2/2002 12:54:34 PM PST:

"Just last week, my wife and I decided to visit Mt. Airey, NC for Mayberry Days. In the small and well-suited downtown cinema on Saturday afternoon, TAGS writer Harvey Bullock was featured in a lecture presented by Mayberry 101 author Neal Brower. Before the ending scene of dialog between dad and son in Opie the Birdman was shown (via video projection), Mr. Bullock explained he had absolutely no idea how the final words lept to the page when he was completing the script. ...Devine Intervention came to my mind. After the closing scene was played for us, I bet there wasn't a dry eye in the house. That episode is magic - the lecture was magic. A million thanks to Harvey Bullock. " - Bill from Concord, NC

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 9/24/2002 10:18:35 PM PST:

"This episode has been voted number one for good reasons. It has many good points, mostly already mentioned. I personally like profound simple statements. I think this episode and "Mr. McBeevee", have some of the best statements in all television. Its even better when its a profound reply to a profound statment. When Opie says "the cage looks so empty now." Andy replies "Yes. But don't the trees seem full." That totally blew me away. Excelent writting and acting." - Mark from Murfreesboro, TN

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 9/17/2002 2:45:27 PM PST:

"No way this episode is better than the pickle story. It's totally weird because everyone at work calls me either Opie or Mr. Pickles, and I think Don Knotts is one of the greatest comedic geniuses of all time." - Cooter Cary from San Francisco

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 9/15/2002 3:47:46 AM PST:

"My all time favorite episode. And to Megan from Indiana, No' in my opinion opening the window was not to strong a punishment. Yes it is true Opie was already hurting. But had he not heard the baby birds chirping for there mother he might not have been compelled to take on the role of raising them. Andy was teaching his son a life lesson and they are sometimes difficult. But too many people in everyday life don't understand the basic rules of life. I know I learned alot of things the hard way growing up and my parents were just as tough on me in some cases. But when you read about all the horrible things people do to other people I feel fortunate I learned morals and right from wrong." - Dave B from Bethlehem Pa

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 9/8/2002 1:50:52 PM PST:

"Ok, I cried, and stuff, but it sort of did put a smile on my face. I give it a 9 out of 10. The only thing that I didn't like besides the bird dying was when Andy raised Opie's window, and made him listen to the birds. No offense to Andy but that was just a little too strong. Opie was already suffering when he killed the bird. I mean, it's not like he meant it. Anyone agree with me? " - Megan from Clinton, IN

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 7/27/2002 2:45:06 PM PST:

"This is by far, my best episode, cause it happened to me, around Opies age... Only I had a new BB gun, not a sling shot.. and just took aim and did indeed kill a little bird, in a tree, no little ones, " bird young'uns" but I felt so bad, for so long...didn't mean it, but life is life and you have to deal with what you did...and maybe there were some little ones...." - Mike Goodell from Orlando, FL

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 7/18/2002 9:10:10 AM PST:

"i love the part where barney is explaning the bird talk...(whistle)...gee im feelin good...(whistle)...geeeee im feeling baaad....(whistle)...he comes a cat!...(whistle)...let's fly away....(whistle)....ok!....i love that part." - Justin from SAME PACE

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 7/18/2002 9:01:05 AM PST:

"This is by far my favorite episode, mainly because it is so funny during the episode, and i want to know how opie(Ron Howard) started to be on this tv show buisness, like did his dad know a director or what, oh by the way i love andy griffith's shows and im only 13years old.lol" - Justin from I'm from Indiana

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 6/28/2002 1:22:27 PM PST:

"I BELIEVE WE WOULD ALL AGREE WITH THE STATEMENT THAT THE ANDY GRIFFITH SHOW STILL REMAINS THE TORCHBEARER FOR GENUINE, HEARTWARMING FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT. THIS EPISODE SOLIDIFIES THAT FACT. IN A DAY WHEN A HUSBAND AND A FATHER HAS TO MONITOR AND CENSOR WHAT COMES ACROSS THE WAVES OF THE TELEVISION SET, EVEN WHAT USE TO BE HARMLESS CARTOON CHANELLS NOW MUST BE EXAMINED WITH THE EYE OF PARENTAL CONCERN. I STAND BY ANDY AND ALLL THE FOLKS OUT THERE WHO KEEP THIS SHOW ALIVE. MAYBERRY, "OUR HOMETOWN"." - WSB from AUGUSTA GA.

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 6/23/2002 9:20:23 AM PST:

"Certainly one of the most most poignant amd endearing episodes ever produced. It's my personal favorite and I still find it hard to believe that a television show that's over 40 years old can stil be meaningful ang relevant today ." - allan from New westminster , B.C.

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 5/29/2002 9:45:18 PM PST:

"The subtle fact that both the baby birds and Opie are motherless is the key to this great classic television show. And the "trees sound full" line is just great writing." - steve from indiana

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 5/22/2002 2:38:02 PM PST:

"I will have to agree this is one of my top 5 favorite episodes. But for my 2 cents the funniest line is when Barney is telling Andy to not touch the worms and bugs that Opie is feeding the young birds with his hands and to use tweezers prompting Andy to reply that the next time he goes tiger hunting he's taking his tweezers...kills me everytime. " - Mark Neukam from Shoals, IN

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 5/8/2002 7:40:51 PM PST:

""BUT DONT THE TREES SEEM NICE AND FULL"..ONE OF THE BEST...I ALWAYS WISHED IT WAS ME AND ANDY WAS MY DAD.I GUESS I'M NOT THE ONLY PERSON WHO WISHES I LIVED IN MAYBERRY...SIMPLER TIMES IS WHAT WE LONG FOR." - MIKE from DETROIT

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 5/5/2002 9:19:13 PM PST:

"Opie the Birdman is without a doubt the greatest, must touching, wonderful episode of the greatest show ever on television." - Dana Reno from Indiana

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 2/13/2002 4:20:51 AM PST:

"I am beginning to wonder can you trust Barney with any weapon, a gun, a knife or a slingshot? lol" - Ryan Warren from Kanorado Kansas

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 1/21/2002 8:29:24 PM PST:

"I was wrong. It was harvey bullock who wrote, opie the birdman. " - jonathan wolfe from king nc

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 1/9/2002 9:00:28 PM PST:

"this one is my favorite of all.it is the only episode i can remember opie crying.i killed a bird with a b.b. gun one time and i cried just like opie did.this one was very serious but yet humorous also. bob sweeney wrote this one i think.if that is so,it was his best work.barney had all the answers in this one.andy and opie on the back porch turning the birds loose, that scene was priceless.very touching episode to me. being from king n.c. which is only 20 minutes from andy griffith's hometown,just makes this show special to me. in one episode it mentioned's the conty i live in.stokes county.i am so in love with this show!god bless you all. " - jonathan wolfe from king nc

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 12/31/2001 4:40:21 PM PST:

"Two words describe this episode....THE BEST" - Kay from Charleston, WV

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 11/16/2001 3:49:51 PM PST:

" In my opinion this is the very best episode of a series that will never be matched..ever. The comic moments of this episode..Barney " Showin " Opie the trick shots on the slingshot..the bird talk bit with Barney inflecting his voice.. priceless. But the gracious learning lessons taught about the gift of life..responsibilty..and ramifications of not understanding these principles is invalueable and wonderfully portrayed. Ron Howard is beautiful as a young American boy learning a valuable lessons from a loving father. the best of the best. " - Robert from Kansas City

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 8/18/2001 5:19:09 AM PST:

"Yes, yes...it's a very sentimental episode and can teach a great life lesson. But let's not forget about the great comedy in this episode. Barney trying to teach Opie how to shoot a sling-shot, while in the courthouse, is one of the funniest scenes of the entire run of the show. His trick shots, behind the barn, around the world, under the bridge, make this episode worth watching over and over. But his specialty, "tail-gunner", with the mirror is possible the best scene of the series. Breaking that glass in the bookshelf is priceless..." - pete from kentucky

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 8/4/2001 10:42:05 AM PST:

"I love this episode it is one of my favorites, my favorite part is when Barney teaches Opie "bird language". " - Christopher Queen from Bartlett,TN

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 6/30/2001 9:22:49 AM PST:

"I'd like to say that I wish the producers of TV and movies would show these types of TV shows again to demonstrate the lessons which can be taught from a father to a son. " - Rudolf Eisner from Springville, New York

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 6/13/2001 4:18:50 PM PST:

"many yrs ago when my oldest son saw this episode he cried about the dead bird. he was 3 or 4 at the time. still one of my favorites. and it embarasses him when i remind he cried." - l kroll from ga

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 5/18/2001 8:10:36 AM PST:

"This is one of my favorite episodes. Does anyone know where I could get this episode on Video VHS?" - from

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 5/18/2001 8:08:04 AM PST:

"This is one of my favorute episodes. Does anyone know where I could get this episode on Video? Thanks." - Beverly Garr from Michigan

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 4/22/2001 7:51:47 PM PST:

"I rated this episode a 10. Whenever I see a bird's nest I always think of this episode and I have always had a respect for all creatures and have passed that along to my kids. " - Mark Mulloy from Kentucky

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 4/6/2001 11:55:23 AM PST:

"I wish I could take credit for this but I am no plagirizer. I read this is one of the TV GUIDES. When Opie frees the birds he says"The cages look so empty." Andy says" Yes but the trees look fuller." The writer of this then says "Aren't our lives a little fuller since we experienced Mayberry? How true." - ryan Warren from Kanorado Kansas

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 3/25/2001 8:57:32 AM PST:

"This is avery good episode .I like how andy tells barney and opie that the birds need to be freed.It is the right thing to do.I used to have pet box turtles and my dad said that the turtles would rather be free.He was right.I wanted to keep them forever.[" - joe branham from louisville

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 10/9/2000 8:49:21 AM PST:

"OPIE AND THE BIRDMAN IS A WONDERFUL STORY OF ANDY TEACHING OPIE TO BE ACCOUNTABLE FOR HIS ACTIONS AND FACING THE CONSEQUENCES OF THE CHOICE HE MADE. " - KAREN from NORTH CAROLINA

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 9/6/2000 12:59:04 PM PST:

"Many times you are touched by TAGS but this one really gets to your heart. I always remember this episode over any...very touching and heartwarming." - Marsha Ellis from Sylacauga AL

comment about 'Opie the Birdman' posted 8/18/2000 6:14:26 PM PST:

"This episode is viewed by most as the best TAGS of 'em all, and I agree! A wonderful story about how Opie cares for four young orphaned (by Opie's slingshot!) baby birds. This one teaches a few nice lessons about life in general." - Dave from New Westminster, BC Canada

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The Andy Griffith Show Episode 101: Opie the Birdman

Originally Aired on Sep 30, 1963. Average User Rating: 9.2 out of 10 (105193 entries).