Great Burr Oak Poem by Ima Ryma

This great burr oak, centuries old,
In center of Lincoln Park Zoo,
Thrived in Chicago heat and cold,
Survived Great Chicago Fire too.
Witnessed animals and plants that
Did come and go through all the years,
Welcomed all to its habitat,
Dropping acorns for souvenirs.
In twenty twenty two, experts
Did witness this burr oak's decline,
And test results were sort that hurts.
The tree was at its finish line.

Sad news in twenty twenty three,
This great burr oak will cease to be.