My Birdfeeder

Just outside my window, As I sip my morning tea, The crossroads of the local bird world, Rain or shine, is there to see. It dangles from a shepherd’s crook, A dear friend gifted me. Squirrels climb up to have a look, Then scamper off, seeds spraying loosely. Cardinals, jays, chickadees and sparrows, Flock there for my view. So do flickers, grackles, finches and juncos, Mourning doves and yes two ducks waddling by too! It’s the only one in my neighborhood, Though I wish others would. It took so long to attract them, With just the seeds that could. They found the pricey pistachio feed quite grand, Settling into a pampered rut, And totally ignored the bargain brand, What choosy beggars – we’ve settled on one with peanuts. I wonder at the variety, Even pigeons and gulls find this suburban yard, And marvel at the lack of propriety, From birds that get only seed, no lard. They squabble with their own kind, Yet like humans are patient with winged cousins. It makes no sense to my mind, But I’m glad for their cheery company by the dozens. M. Renee Taylor 3-19-17