Snowy

This poem is a response to the way that some birds of prey are being kept in captivity at a well-known Cardiff attraction. I was particularly moved by a snowy owl.

The Snowy Owl.

I sit here on my perch all day

Wishing I could fly.

I cannot loose these tethers,

However hard I try.

 

I know I’m well looked after

And fed regularly each day,

But I’d love to go out hunting

Like other birds of prey.

 

The owl and the p***y cat

Went to sea in a beautiful pea green boat

But the only thing that I can see

Is a castle and a moat.

 

I wish that I could find a mate,

And so I make this plea

If only you’d release me

I could raise a family.

 

 Next time you take my picture,

Peer through the bars at me,

Remember that I’d rather

Be at home inside a tree.

I wish I had my own place

A place to call my home.

Instead of sitting here like this

Perched upon a ‘throne’.

 

Occasionally I get to fly

When allowed, just now and then.

But much too afraid to go far

And I soon return again.

 

 

Is there no one out there?

Can’t you read my face?

Aren’t there a lot of people

Who are called the humane  race???

Author's Note

I am not an animal rights campaigner but on a recent visit to Cardiff Castle I was very moved by the plight of the birds of prey , especially the gorgeous snowy owl pecking madly at the tether around it’s legs.......so I respond with this poem....