October 22, 2025

I went back to the zoo

Only to find my favorite creatures

In hibernation.

It isn't the time for turpor,

Nor a day for domancy,

But that's how they displayed

Low in energy, deep in breath.

Management seemed oblivious:

Fruit flaunted in appreciation,

Distractions scattered about the yard,

Conservation still the intention

Even with numbers thinning out.

I could see eyelids flutter

Even from the other side of the wall,

Signs of mental activity

Contrary to the stagnation.

This must be what fools the zoo,

Appearances that nothing's changed.

Stress and deprivation have driven

These beautiful creatures to self-preservation.

Facultative versus obligate hibernation

Might be the day's education.