BIRD OF PREY


I sit above the tower perched in my nest
Protecting my young ones and keeping them at rest
The foliage of my feathers will keep them warm
I will keep them safe and free from harm
I must go now and hunt for some food
I gently flapped my wings and hovered as far as I could
My eyes are so sensitive, I can see so far
Down below it appears to be an ant, but I know it is a car
I now move on to the field far from the city
There amongst the thistles and golden rod is a mouse I see
I focus in and look at its path under the old elm tree
There beneath the green moss it nestles down below
Searching for food, unaware of my descent, which is now so slow
I fly down below to the nearest tree
Watching intently, wondering if it heard me
At the beat of a heart my talons drop
Grabbing the rodent without a second thought
I now grace the sky with my wings spread so wide
Soaring so freely, letting a loud screech from deep inside
I see my babies in the nest, hunger-stricken, as they wait
As I approach, I see their protector, my mate
He guards them in my absence, defending all
My babies are so young now, they are so small
I now prepare their food.  I do every day
For I am their mother and also...
A BIRD OF PREY

Joe Henn