Father magpie from the Artamidae

Shades of white and black plumage  

glossy in the sun  

Up high, he waits 

Warbles to the passers by 

Iridescent sheen in his feathers, so proud. 

He is beautiful, he is fierce. 

His gold eyes follow me 

He will protect his young 

Gum tree arms hold him up  

As he sits and watches  

To protect the nest, he must leave  

Swoop those who come too close for comfort 

Frantic, flapping wings signals a warning –  

Stay away.  

Father magpie from the Artamidae.