August is upon the face of cow parsnips

mosquito larvae twitch in still pools

where red clay and the Animas meet

cottonwoods offer escape from rays

boiling sun scorches earth, high noon

the stench of carrion is full on lazy air

black flies swarm about a lifeless rodent

red hooded avian types witness on high

rain has been delinquent for many months

navigating sand at minimum flow has the

Animas choked to a trickle near each bend

coyote lay panting where willing shade plays

their fur hides, holding bulged ribs taut

this land offers a menu fit for shadows

at half day active life is held in abeyance

in sun's absence nature's prey seeks refuge

as predators engage in a game of chance

senses and fleet feet will determine winners

but at half day, cunning takes its daily siesta