Savanna Night

Savannah Night

There was an uneasy feeling that night on the savannah.
The creatures were jumpy as they huddled and grazed.
Startling at each new sound, one stamps its foot and
the vast herd flees, from what they are unsure.

The lions creep through the long grass setting an ambush.
The first pair's job to spook the herd now is done.
The rest spread out, now taking up the deadly hunt. 
Working quickly they target one and separate it.

One lioness jumps on its back then slips off and is trampled.
Another tackling it face on is gored in the shoulder.
But the rest soon have it cornered and it is soon smothered.
As it dies the pride are already ripping open its belly.

The blood covers the land red as it seeps into the soil
There will be feasting tonight as the lions gather to eat.
Snarling as they rip into the warm carcass, blows lashing out,
As they vie for position, pushing and shoving each other.

The hunt was long and hard, the fruits came at high price.
Two lioness wounded, one will die. Such is the cost of success.
A calf bawls for its mother, yet she cannot answer its call.
Sadly it is too young to live, it will end up a tasty morsel.

Sated the lions rest in the early sunlight as cubs play. 
Life for now on the savannah continues, and peace reigns.
Copyright © | Year Posted 2017

Poem

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Inman Avatar
July 7, 2017 at 9:06 AM
Beautiful imagery Shadow. When I read the title I imagined a very different poem. I am happy I was wrong. Enjoyed this one very much.
Duncan Avatar
June 15, 2017 at 9:55 PM
Good imagery in this savanna night :)
Rodrigues Avatar
May 19, 2017 at 5:01 PM
You took me there! Nice one, Shadow! And thank you for the placment in your contest! :) 7
Yvonne Avatar
May 12, 2017 at 2:15 PM
Wow, really like this write. A Fav!
Marcum Wong Avatar
May 5, 2017 at 2:04 PM
Such is the way of life Shadow. It is difficult to watch from a camera lens. You did really well describing the hunt and the kill. I can't help rooting for the victim to escape. Excellent! ; ) 7
Wolf Avatar
May 3, 2017 at 12:25 PM
A very descriptive write, Shadow! This will do well in the contest I'm sure! Great job
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