There is a feeding protocol in the squirrel world. In the deep of winter there were eight to ten of the furry ground rats dropping by. To prevent squabbling amongst them I spread seeds in and around the main feeder. Voila! Fighting ceased as they each enjoyed their own pile of feed taking their time even though there was a line up. Finally, there was peace in the garden.
day fades while night rises,
snow softly falls upon the feeder
cloaking it with a white table cloth.
Mr. Cardinal arrives for his evening meal,
his brilliant red against the white of snow
is a site to behold in the wane of light.
this watcher sighs as he dines alone,
knowing his mate fed solo an hour ago,
perhaps a disagreement in the menu?
storm is brewing
clouds heavy with snow
blows over the land.
neighbours are disguised
with draperies of snowflakes
so thick the road is invisible.
Winter is not over
nor will be for months
til then we hold fast.
