Summertime Haven

Wee brown bat, concealed by a shutter,
inverted in shady peace through the long summer day.
Tonight you will dart around the front porch light,
denying moths glorious immolation against its searing bulb.
Tomorrow, as I sweep their wings under the privet,
you will doze, full belly pressing against the shutter slats.

Your presence was revealed by tiny pellets on the cement –
pellets which dissolve into powder when met by the bristles of my broom.
Will others share your bounty,
packing the shutters with furry bodies and leathery wings?
Or will this wealth beyond dreams remain yours alone,
a treasure trove of easy prey,
until you outgrow your convenient lair?

Timothy Tocher
Suffern, NY