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