Little penguins, knee-high penguins
They swim in southern seas
hunting fish on open oceans and cloistered bays
dodging hungry seals and killer whales,
and sleek, deadly white sharks.
But when love lies upon the waters
they hop from ocean haunts
to seek their breeding dreams
and search the sandy havens
a shady hole to be found.
In rocky overhangs
or under borrowed sheds and boats
Maybe, under your house?
the fairy couples nestle down
and sing all night duets of love
No gentle serenades for them
but ringing 'ass-like braying tones'!
What loud cries
for such a little bird.
Copyright (c) Helen Duley 2002