A Tale of
Two Critters
Before I step outside, I peer out the windows to make sure the coast is clear. I’m especially afraid to leave the house at nighttime. I feel like I’m a prisoner in my own home!
Allow me to explain. A skunk has made her den under our porch! For the past few weeks, we’ve been tiptoeing around trying to avoid her—“trying” being the key word here. She usually stays out of our way, too.
Of course, there’s a first time for everything. We came home from a late movie last night. It was pitch black outside because we’d forgotten to turn on the porch light. As we fumbled our way to the door, I heard my teenage son shout, “Oh no!” I didn’t need to see to figure out what had happened: The burning stench hit my nose immediately. My son had crossed paths with the dreaded skunk.
A day later, our yard simply reeks. My son has taken six showers so far—and his hair still smells. We had to throw away his clothes. And the worst part? The skunk is still under our porch! Who knows when this will happen again?
Hey, there! Check out my new place. I just moved in underneath this big porch. Talk about perfect! Warm. Dry. Plenty of openings to slip in and out of. When I moved in, a few mice took one whiff and ran off. Hey, their loss. More room for me!
No place is perfect, though. I have to keep an eye out for these pesky neighbors upstairs. Luckily, they usually stay inside at night, which works out well for me. You see, I sleep all day. At night, I come out from my den to search for bugs. (Ah, who am I kidding? I’ll eat almost anything, from a tomato to a tidbit from the trash!)
Everything’s been going well. Until last night, that is. I had just come out of my den. Next thing I knew, a boy was walking toward me, talking loudly. I was trapped between him and the porch. I tried to warn him. I stamped my feet. I lifted up my tail. But he wouldn’t stop! I had no choice. I sprayed him! That stopped him in his tracks. I hope these people leave me alone now!
Sniffing Out Solutions
After reading "A Tale of Two Critters" above,
answer these questions.
What is the problem from the person's point of view?
What is the problem from the skunk's point of view?
Give at least two reasons skunks might make their homes near humans.
How might this conflict be solved without harming wildlife? (Hint: Read this month's Critter Cards for ideas!)
