Thanks to the crow

A lone crow set off cawing in our oak tree minutes before a red-tailed hawk flew in. Our four chickens and pet rabbit were all in the yard enjoying the sunshine when the alert was sounded. Seconds later, the crow chased the hawk away, while we gathered everyone up and got them to safety. Many thanks, Friend Crow.

"Black Birds" by Lisl auf der Heide

When the crows come

black against the darkening sky

their wings obscure the sun

and small sounds drown

in their strident caws. 

 

They storm the walnut tree

snatch the green fruit

drop it from great heights

retrieve the cracked kernels.

 

Again and again they dive

From tree to ground

feathers gleaming

where stray sunrays touch.

 

And when the mountains turn blue

with the haze of evening

the crows lift off in ebony formation

head toward some secret roost

where they blend into the night.