A quiet step in fallen autumn leaves
beneath a velvet sky, so full of stars
that all the night was lit as if the moon
had shown her face in sweet and silver glow.
No witness there, between the looming forms
of sycamore and ancient valley oak,
to see the golden eye and tawny fur
of mountain cat; he moved with cunning ease,
his mind alive with rich, enticing scent.
He came upon a farm, and there within -
delicious prey! His choice, in hunger made,
then sealed his fate with every splitting bite
and slicing swat. He killed the goats, not one,
but one and ten; though he'd not eat them all.
Thus, as a cat will spring and kill a mouse,
he sprang and killed, of malice not a shred.
Yet humans see a personal assault;
they cry of fear and damages sustained;
a bounty hunter bought would kill this cat,
and make things right again in farmer's world.
But, Farmer John, you live in wilderness
of mountains where the native creatures roam.
Where cats have trod, then others follow fast.
Of dogs you've none; your fence ain't high enough -
and Jesus, Man, must you now kill them all?
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Author Notes
Last night I attended a meeting entitled "Protecting pets and livestock in lion country". In the Santa Monica Mountains, a stone's throw from Los Angeles, we have mountain lions, bobcats, coyotes, and now at least one black bear. Many people have horses and other livestock in the mountains, which are essentially an "urban wilderness". In my opinion, the owner of livestock should take steps to safeguard their animals in a responsible manner - sturdy barns, tall, strong fences, fenced areas with a roof - cats can climb!
The mountain lion in question is to be granted a reprieve, as local officials will work with the landowners to build secure structures for their animals - free of change (our donations to local non-profits at work here).
The fact is
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