Grackle

Even as they call them pests
I annoy these Texans
By professing my affection
For these large, extravagant birds
That strut shamelessly
Across the sidewalk cafes
Or swing in noisy gangs
Through the citypark sycamores.
I guess I'm supposed to vilify them
In the ways those who've lived long
Beside them do
But dammit!    I'm just off the plane
And I admire their silken heads
And unabashed Texas bravado