It’s difficult being a reptile in winter
even the fire-breathing kind, and our research proves
that genus is far rarer than most believe

Once winter hits, should a dragon linger
at your hummingbird feeder
or sneak through nearby piles of decaying leaves
consider placing a laundry basket
filled with soft blankets
somewhere they can access
It’ll work nicely as a temporary lair

Be prepared for your visiting dragon to steal
your scarves, your spoons, your salt shakers
or anything else that captures their fancy
They will, nearly always,
leave them behind at season’s end

In terms of sustenance,
animal proteins are preferred
Don’t be alarmed if they eat the bones
Their constitutions are suited for them

Most dragons will happily share
space before a fireplace with household pets
But do make sure you provide
enough blankets for all to be cozy

This is important: your visiting dragon will leave when they choose
even if it seems to you the nights are still too cold
for anything but flannel pajamas and mugs of hot chamomile
Trust your dragon knows its business best
Clean out the laundry basket, wash the blankets
Put them away for next year
Many dragons will return to homes where they once felt safe
when winter falls again