V.

Let me recount my multi-colored, full-throated, feathered brood:

Chickadee, House Sparrow, Junco, Jay

Nuthatch, Robin

Purple Finch, Gold Finch,

Ruby Throated Hummingbird, Crow

Red Winged Black Bird, Tree Swallow

Downey Woodpecker, Snowy Woodpecker,

Mourning Dove, Cedar Waxwing, Cardinal

And not least of these –

RAVEN

.