Sunlight drifts through mossy strands
From gnarled fingers of a mighty Oak's hands
Creatures calling from darkened holes
Infant fuzzies...warm and bold
Three pairs of eyes with masked delight
Clicking their greetings...welcoming night
One bold little infant, his claws hung out
To taste this challenge and walk about
Each fingered grip is carefully stroked
For new nerves calling on this mighty oak
Testing nature...the dare is here
Little masked creature crawling there
A tad too high then a shrieking call
"Momma come get me...I'm not this tall! "
She beckons to her "batman" with soothing clicks
"Back on down Sugar...and do it quick!"
Siblings echo Morse-coded calls
"Strong tiny masked one, please don't fall!"
Momma and me with knuckled breaths
Pray for this baby with heart felt depth
Finally secure with others in tow
Momma Raccoon...striped tail a flow
Gathers her babies, safe for this night
Til dare calls the wee ones for another test flight

© 1999 Susan K. Rowse

Susan welcomes your comments!

A true testimony to my everyday look at nature here along the Atlantic Coastline.