slowly through the bushes

slowly through the bushes
catsoft feet patrol the yard
rats and mice in mortal peril
from the humans' feline guard

never cross in open daylight
watch the shadow on the grass
hawks are also deadly danger
careful vermin quickly pass

once inside, the choicest treasure
placed inside a metal trap
lets the hungry rodent enter
shuts the heavy metal flap

still they flourish
no surprise
so many born
for each that dies