Ode to a Sealice in the Style of R. Burns
B. McPherson Many people do not understand the serious nature of the numerous parasitic sea lice that attack the wild salmon stocks on the west coast of British Columbia. These creatures attach themselves to the outside of salmon and feed on them. Before the advent of commercial net pen salmon ‘farms’ sea lice were fairly rare. They are now found in great numbers near the net pens and prey on the wild babies emerging from their natal streams. Sea lice are increasingly being blamed for the massive mortality of some of the salmon runs. This ode was penned by a friend of mine – Andy Mathisen – and he has given me permission to reprint it here. To a Sealice With apologies to Robbie Burns Ha! Where are you from, you slimy critter? That blemish coho's silver glitter Perhaps yon pens have spawned your litter Over floats and nets? By God! You must feed well On such tame pets! You parasitic, sucking blunders Scourge of all the fish you plunder How dare ...