Along the Track

Along the Track

Two nankeen kestrels with honey wings

over pale bodies, hunt

through a rare long stay, roosting together

until only one is seen. The smaller bird

likely the younger, still seizes prey and returns

to a quiet spot among large trees.

I think there is a nest—doubtless in a hollow.

It seems too soon when the second bird

perches ruffled and alone as if she has stopped waiting

for eggs to hatch or has no young to feed.

Four currawongs harass her

from perches a metre away, below and above

and at the side. They dart in snapping

without seeming to do much damage.

Later she perches at the top

of a gnarled grey almost leafless eucalypt.

It looks a time of disappointment;

perhaps next season will be kinder.

The currawongs move to capture

the bird bath in the backyard, and the tree

near the steps as a nursery.

Then in the reserve I see with surprise

the two kestrels glide to a sparse tree top

manoeuvre almost joyfully, then separate.

Close above me, near a grey hollow

their fledgling, dull coloured and short tailed

still days from flying, perches and silently

watches as I navigate my trail.

Paul Williamson