We saw you last week
On a blizzard’s wings
Tromping through fresh snow
With a mixed blackbird flock
Ten in total, compared to dozens
Outnumbered three to one
Grackles, cowbirds, starlings
But only a few rusty blackbirds
Coats shining in the sun
Yellow eyes wide
98% have vanished since 1980
And no one knows why
I peer out the window
Quietly counting
And wondering if this
Is the last time
I’ll ever see you