Softly, he pads through the brush,
snout forward, tail low,
sniffing the air.
His hunger is sharp,
metallic on his tongue.
Within, a low rumble of unease
disturbs the roost.
Still somnolent they stir.
Feathers tremble as fear folds in
like the evening mist.
He sees them now, his pulse quickens.
Salivating he starts to pant,
smelling the promise of a
belly full.