HER FIRST DUSTBATH

(Watching a hen recover herself at our sanctuary)

First claws then beak, then
Little bursts of earth – our hen
Is taking a dustbath, her first
Since rescued in a ravaged state
Now safe at our place.

This spectral ballerina with
Pendulous pale comb, blurred eyes,
Spiny shafts, long thin nails
Diaphanous almost.
A sight to behold as hesitantly, then vigorously she
Washes her body and soul clean in the soil
Of the manmade filth
That never was herself.

– Karen Davis

Photo of UPC Sanctuary Hens Dustbathing by Davida G. Breier
Modern chicken house in the United States