Josie Whitehead’s Poems
Moorhens are about 13 inches (33 cm) long with the sexes just about indistinguishable. They are in the same family as coots, and their nervous behaviour has led them to being called 'Skitty Coots' in some areas. The are not 'moor' birds, the name being a corruption of 'merehen'.
By Josie Whitehead
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recorded reading
Miss Mary and Sir Thomas are two moorhens pert and sweet
Strutting round my garden for something good to eat.
Said Miss Mary to Sir Thomas “There’s some bird seed over there –
I think there could be just enough to feed a little pair.”
Said Sir Thomas to Miss Mary: “Although our lake is frozen hard –
Eating in this garden means we must surely keep on guard.
I’ve often heard it said by some that humans can be cruel –
And to put our faith in humans, would make us look like fools.”
“Are you sure you’re not mistaken?” said his pretty little wife.
“The ducks come every summer and they lead a happy life!”
“Have you heard of duck l’orange then?” came her husband’s short retort.
“A duck who trusts their kindness, finds its life cut rather short.”
These words were uttered quickly whilst they grabbed the seed and ran,
For they thought they should stay hidden from the sight of greedy man.
Back through the small hedge tunnel, and off towards their lake –
“Our frozen lake’s preferable to being a meal upon their plate!”
Copyright 2007