Woodpecker

From an irritating playground epithet, 

To an affectionate tag from pupils,

Now an emblem of Nature`s circularity.

The magnificent red, green headdress 

Proclaims its lordship over the forest.

Rattling the relentless pursuit of prey,

Startling the silence of a misty dawn, 

Striking them out of their cold night`s sleep.

They flee him as he unravels them,

Their purpose now is his.