The Brave Little RoosterÂ
friends, a chicken is an omnivore
needs protein, that’s why so manyÂ
early kids’ books are heavy on boys Â
hunting and trapping – so pitch that Â
dead bunny in the chicken yard!
when bugs are under the snow Â
my daughter and son-in-law keepÂ
a 5-gallon covered can in their trunkÂ
beat the crows to fresh Nevada roadkillÂ
throw rabbit, lizard, vole to their flockÂ
(in covered yard since picked clean –Â
hawks and coyotes like protein too, soÂ
chickens can’t run free) the gang fallsÂ
on any delicacy with joy
makes short work of the treatÂ
but one day in comes a huge furryÂ
dead raccoon oh! oh! oh!
an enemy! consternation! Â
the hens huddle in a corner, Â
while the brave rooster protectsÂ
his harem with widespread wings – Â
but when the danger doesn’t move
hour after hour they gradually venture forthÂ
finally realize they have a banquet
which lasts many happy days
2024 Jacqueline Jackson
This article appears in Spring Home & Garden 2024.
