The Roost On half dead ancient tree whose crown arcs green against blue sky Shags roost, nests tiered limb on limb, driftwood, plastics, seaweed stacks, Here young break their shells, taste fish, learn to fly. The roost behind the dunes, their chosen place away from exposed winds and oceans fury. Up on the highest place three pied shags wait in clouds of midges, watch the ways over coast and sea as fisher birds go and come regurgitate their catch. © Craig A Roberts, 2022