Small Stories About Animals

[All-Rounder]

I'm very happy to announce that we have a family of skunks living in our back yard! They originally was living under my neighbors deck. The neighbor planned to have them exterminated. I couldn't stand the thought so I built a three room den for them. I placed a trail of food from my neighbors deck to lure them to the new den. I was so happy when I found that worked. I put food out for them every evening. They are some of the most adorable animals I have seen. I think they are just beautiful. I have encountered them up close a few times. A young one almost came up to me obviously very curious. He/she got within about three feet, then stood up to check me out.
The neighbor where they used to live has dogs that was always attacking them. The result is a lot of skunk spray and powerful sent and an angry neighbor that was always having to bathe their dogs. Now that they are happily living in our back yard with their own den and safe place, there is no scent at all. Not even a hint.
Skunks are actually very good to have around. As long as they are never attacked, they never spray or smell. They sleep all day and come out at night. They dig up and eat grub worms that eat tree, grass and other plant roots.
Also, they have the most adorable personalities.

Yep that's why sometimes they can also make the best pets. But it's best to keep them outside and in the wild. Your setting is perfect, I hope you enjoy them and they live happily.

They're low smell, they don't poop often like birds or rodents, and they are like walking bears with long massive claws. They're the best thing on Earth and are omnivores. You're blessed.

 

[Ken]

Just discovered yesterday that our skunk family (see above post) has grown! They had babies! I guess some time ago, because they all now look like young adults. I guess about like human teenagers. Which means the babies spent their infant time hidden in the den.

The whole family was spotted in the patio food tray that I put out every evening. Haven't yet been able to get a picture of them as it is rather dark and if they sense my presence, they all scamper back to the den. I still put bowls of seed and fresh cut fruit in their den. Yesterday, I met one of the older ones as I was bringing out the food bowls. He/she just ran into the den. After I placed the bowl they could be seen moving about around the bowls.

I have found by this experience; if you want to ensure animals such as mice, rats, skunks, possums, etc. do not become a "pest", just help give them what they need. We are doing the same with a family of mice. Makes them have no interest in getting into our trash or our house. We have been caring for them for several year now and not once have they ever been a "pest". Only a joy!