Out at Dusk

Shadow across the bank
Swift and low, moves fast
Stops in the dark unseen
But I know he’s there.
Fox out on the forage.

Stands silent among reeds
Still and tall, unmoving
Stares out at water’s edge
But I see the white streak.
Heron out on the fish.

Shuffles like a sturdy rug
Shaggy tank across road
Storms through black hedge
But I miss him in car.
Badger out on the hunt.

Martin Delemare
31st August 2006