Baby waits alone

Baby waits alone
in sandy shallows lying,
– wretchedly crying

Dam marooned at sea
aware her calf is dying
precious time expiring

Biped mammals strive
distressing trials appeasing
cold denial teasing

infant but alive
languishing in tear-spilled eyes
watching her demise
flukes and flippers raised
weakened, trembling, resigning
euthanasia praised
© I.D. Carswell

The Humpback whale calf was newly born when found in shallows, it’s umbilical still attached. Volunteers stayed with her for 24 hours however the mother was not located. She was euthanized to prevent further suffering. It was a sad but inevitable end.