Antics

Tumbles of fur and warping tails,

squirrel are learning the curves

of frolic and play—essential qualities

for squirrels this time of year.

Dapples snow covers the landscape

revealing the old grass, pine needles,

broken twigs from season's passing.

Making the attempts at frozen suet,

they find an easier bounty on the ground,

sunflower seed trapped in divots,

hidden in collapsed mole tunnels. No need

for acrobatics here, no need to challenge

feeder baffles. Our cat sits chirping at the window.

They're back at it again, scrambling in the

slivers of afternoon sun. More join in the fray

now, but keep busy with the treasure hunt.

Chickadees keep watch, five and six now.

Plenty to go around.

1/17