Raptor Exhibit by Patricia L. Goodman

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Raptor Exhibit
by
Patricia L. Goodman

for David

The great horned owl’s eyes,

yellow as Nefertiti’s necklace,

stare at my grandson and me,

rivet us. He is an imprint bird,

the handler explains, healthy, but

raised by a well-meaning person

so now he thinks he’s a human.

On other perches, a screech owl

someone hit with a car, broke

its wing so it can’t be mended.

He also must live his life

in captivity, and two hawks,

who each lost an eye

after being struck

on the road—all these birds

rescued, rehabilitated by

caring humans after being

compromised by the careless.

My grandson gets it, looks at me,

Nana, are you going to write a poem

about this?

Patricia L. Goodman lives on the banks of the Red Clay Creek in Delaware. She has had many poems published both online and in written journals and anthologies. With a degree in Biology and a career as a professional horsewoman, Patricia's passion, not surprisingly, focuses on the natural world and much of her work reflects this. Luckily, her grandchildren share that passion and are often her companions in adventure.

dotief@comcast.net:
I love the end!
Posted 11/09/2013 02:08 PM

Ross Kightly:
Being cussed enough myself to bridle at being told 'There's a poem in that for you' I admire your restraint Patricia. I also recall a demonstration of owls at a school I taught in. It was one of the scariest things I ever experienced. There is a sadness in this poem which you restrain yourself - admirably - from labouring. 'Yellow as Nefertiti's necklace....' Lovely stuff.
Posted 11/09/2013 12:02 PM

peninsulapoet:
Love it!
Posted 11/09/2013 11:14 AM

Jo:
He does recognize the poet in you. We are present watching the hawks with you. I didn't know the term, imprint bird--happy to learn something new also. Keep writing.
Posted 11/09/2013 09:05 AM

gigi:
Your grandson gets it for sure; he recognizes the poet in you. Beautiful poem, appreciated by another Nana.
Posted 11/09/2013 08:42 AM

erinsnana:
Wonderful!
Posted 11/09/2013 04:17 AM

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