A Seagull

 

With lightning speed she flew from her nest high on the escarpment

 downward swooping toward the beach and sea below.

Above a sandy beach drawn clean by a receeding sea

as the ocean's tide pulled back to reveal a pristine coastline.

With wings outstretched the seagull hovered momentarily

with eyes surveying all that lay beneath her.

A yellow curled beak and her sharp eyes were primed

to pounce upon an unsuspecting fish

which swam carelessly close to the surface.

With no warnng the seagull flung herself in a downward spiral

and plunged into the ocean with an ease of force.

The beak and fish were gripped in a clinch of satisfaction

as the bird then began its slow ascent with its trophy held tight.

High above the chicks awaited their mother with anticipation

with tiny beaks open wide as lunch would soon be served.

The seagull fluttered gently in a hovering circle of flight

to land and receive a rapturous welcome from her young.