Whēkau was NZ’s best-loved owl, when resting or when on the prowl.
He out-sized Ruru (the Morepork) - and that’s by no means idle talk.
As well, his expert flying skill, mere humans never failed to thrill;
And for Whēkau’s safe, secluded nest, he found a rocky crevice best.
Known well was his loud, laughing call, before cruel Fate would him befall;
And hearing that distinctive tone, signalled him, on his nocturnal roam.
That was till savaged by wild cats, or stoats and dogs, or even rats;
And though extinct for all these years, his loss still sadness brings, and tears.
(The last sighting of a Whēkau in New Zealand was in 1914)
© Patrick Thomas 2010
“The Australian firm Wirripang Pty. Ltd., has published two of my
anthologies on musical subjects (which derive from my
former profession as an orchestral conductor) and
has released my autobiography -
now available on Wirripang’s website.”
- Patrick Thomas
see also
An Owl Limerick, An Owl Sonnet, Aussie Owls,
Owls Ahoy! & The Screech Owl
Hooters (Owl) Calendar Orders
Owl Section
 Double Rainbow |
 Sunday Paper |
 Nahtzee |
 I Can Still Kiss You |
Church Dinner |
 59 Chev Boat |
 Urgent World War I Message |
 An Iceberg Floated Into Town |
 Walk Sign Timing |
 Family Hands |
 Chocolate Bed |
 Crocodile Floor |
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