The Heron
by Nicole Forrester
The Heron
The heron is a common bird,
Around the world its name heard
Labelled by colour of many a hue,
Purple, grey, black and blue.
Patience
Wetland, lake and urban pond,
Attract this hunter of fish fond.
Statue still with patience great,
Shoulders hunched for the wait.
Regal Figure
Feathered in formal coronation cloak,
The regal figure is aloof from folk,
Distinctive shape with curved neck long,
Raucous call - no pretty song.
Mighty Wings
For prey below sharp eyes that stare,
But also for threats above from air.
When possible danger is perceived,
Mighty wings spread, escape achieved.
Spear-like Yellow Bill
Stealthy wade to catch its fill,
Armed with spear-like yellow bill,
Head submerged in a flash,
Then up again full of splash.
Caught by Precision Lightning Strike
Wriggling eels and rats it likes,
Caught by precision lightning strikes.
Swallowed whole with not a shred
For hungry scavengers to be fed.
Totem in cultures present and past,
Signifying qualities sure to last,
Wisdom, patience and purity,
Strength, good judgement, longevity.
Messenger of the gods
Totem in Cultures Present and Past
The sun is down, no heron seen,
Single feather to show it’s been.
Flown to heronry in tree up high,
Or perhaps a bed of reeds to lie.
Single Feather
Symbol of creation in Ancient Egypt,
Messenger of gods Greeks believed it.
In Africa – heron or feather found,
Means good luck for those around.
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Cornwall, UK