Mongoose
Oh mighty mongoose, your courage I admire:
To write of your deeds I never would tire.
A short-legged creature with a coarse-haired body,
Your coordination is not at all shoddy.
A fierce little warrior who lives in a burrow
You attack your prey as if there’s no tomorrow.
When dealing with rats and birds you are fearless,
And your snake-striking skills make you utterly peerless.
With the means to out-manoeuvre a cobra
It would be a fool who attempted to rob ya.
With reflexes as fast as any rocket
I never would dare to pick your pocket.
Your claws and teeth could de-value my denim;
And you’re never concerned with anti-venom.
But if I sat still and did not provoke you
Would you sit on my lap and allow me to stroke you?
Dear mongoose, from afar you have earned my respect.
I shall praise you and never show any neglect.
For a soul who tangles with snakes oh so avidly,
It’s all just as well you reproduce rapidly.