Tale of Tails

By Janet R. Balmforth

As you read the poem, decide which animal is being described, then match that animal with its tail.

A tail’s an appendage,

And so well designed!

It’s useful and handsome—

Whose can you find?

Whose tail swishes,

Slapping at flies?

And whose thumps the water

When dread dangers arise?

Whose helps it swing

Through trees limb to limb?

Whose moves it along

Each time that it swims?

Whose tail holds a quiver

Of needles to swing?

And whose twists around in

A curlicue ring?

Who has a tail that

Acts as a prop

To hold it erect

When it slows to a stop?

And whose tail seems happy

And wags with delight

Whenever a friend,

Like you, is in sight?

Illustrated by Dick Brown