Ode to Cedar Waxwings

Ode to Cedar Waxwings

by Carie Juettner

Who, oh who is pooping blue
upon my flagstone walk?
Oh, I see, it’s all of you—
a cedar waxwing flock.

Descending on my yard in droves,
your high-pitched song is merry,
for you have found a treasure trove
of ripe ligustrum berries.

Your feathers fade from brown to gray
with a tail that’s tipped in gold.
Though you visit, you never stay—
in your bandit mask, so bold.

Maybe you think your little disguise
will shield you when you swoop
into my yard, filling my skies,
splattering my home with poop.

I see through your clever trick
but still fall for your charms.
When I go outside to snap a pic—
Splat! Blue poop on my arm.

*

I love these beautiful birds, despite their inconsiderate pooping habits. If you’re unfamiliar with cedar waxwings, I highly suggest visiting the Cornell Lab’s website to learn more about them and see photos much better than mine of their gorgeous markings.