IN THE GRANITE

Killdeer have their hands full
with children born on the run
teaching intonations of language

while training safe habits—
four bird brains headed
in different directions

after an intense defense
of speckled granite clutches
for four long weeks

from nest-robbing crows
and snakes fresh from hibernation
with wants of their own.

In the crushed gravel drive
their feigned broken wings
flash grit and passion.