The Heron

The heron flies with neck retracted, short,
Unlike its friend, the long-necked, graceful swan, 
and though they're known by egret, also sport
the moniker of bittern, now foregone. 

No easy life, these water fowl dwell on,
with fish entrapped when fortunate to dine.
They nest, find marshy ground to build upon
or teeter on a branch with keen design.

The "lady of the waters" in decline
as wetlands shrink from man's intruding use,
the heron is oblivious to signs
of human disregard and land abuse.

They stalk their prey and stab with sharpened beak
while unaware of avian mystique.

Published in "Trappings of the Years" and "Eloquence"
by Jack Huber- All rights reserved

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