Ode to a Beaver

Ode to a Beaver I watch the beaver gnaw the tree And see its place in history. Cursed with a luxurious pelt Sought after by European furriers. That led to the slaughter of the species From which a nation was conceived. Like a virus invasion out of control, Its numbers decimated and habitat destroyed. We humans can be a cruel lot, Killing for pleasure and exploitation. I regret the harm inflicted Upon these creatures of creation. As I ponder my journey’s end, At the swamp of its making, Joy swells my heart to see By the lodge, kits swimming.