The Grey Nurse Shark

Drifting nonchalantly and gracefully across the tranquil seas,

To the naked eye, they are a vignette of death and fear.

Despite their intimidating semblance, with sharp teeth like rapiers, 

The grey nurse shark’s impending doom is gradually making its way to the surface.

Its large, stout body, its obsession for delectable crabs,

With its senses sharpened and predatory attention,

The grey nurse shark spies spear and line fishers.

As the rippling water distorts their bodies, it foresees their ominous future.

Dwelling off the coral coasts of beautiful Australia,

This majestic beast is as persevering as a pearl clinging to an oyster.

Our kind causes this magnificent beast all kinds of inconveniences,

For we roast them, devour them and skin them to bone.

Malevolent humans are monsters to nature,

Like a hawk does to a sparrow,

Despite our conservation efforts and wishes for them to survive,

Hopes remain high, but our actions ensure their chance remains narrow.