The birds on the beach undisturbed by people
Do not know the reason for the human absence
Taking the chance to forage without interruption
Timed perfectly to benefit the spring migration.
We can see them from the seawall by the bay
Watching from a distance we are not a threat
As they eat voraciously to store up energy
In preparation to make the long flight north.
The longer that the beaches remain closed
The better for everything that lives there
Especially the shorebirds nesting in the sand
Suddenly given back an expanse of habitat.
I suppose this year may be especially good
For them breeding in relative peace and quiet
Increasing their numbers after recent losses
Reversing their decline at least temporarily.
Everything is good for some form of life
Though we put our own well being first
In this time of great suffering worldwide
Being in nature provides a momentary comfort.
