Grace Note
I got a Talon in my hand once.
It didn't go all the way through.
Just a Red-tailed Hawk.
"If you work with them, you will bleed."
That's what my mentor said.
"Don't get careless again."
A Great Homed Owl grabbed another mentor.
They had to anesthetize him. The man too I suppose.
As sleep took hold the owl let go.
"That bald eagle has 1200 pounds per square inch.
Just hold that glove high.
Let her grab the fish and go.
The golden eagle is an imprint.
She sees you as a potential mate.
Don't let her get too close.
Always wear the falconer's glove.
It will protect you when talons rake,
but not if the bird clamps down.
That Barn Owl is a sweetheart though,
gentle as a lamb, and always
well received by the audience.
Disinfect that wound well.
You don't want it to swell up like a balloon.
Are you sure you wouldn't rather work with the snakes?"