Wednesday, August 15, 2007

Mephitis mephitis

Just when you thought it was safe to go outside...

Long time readers may remember how last summer we learned the hard way that skunks live nearby. On occasion I've had to close the bedroom windows in the night because skunk musk has wafted into the room, but we've had no close encounters since Mike's mishap. I fear that could change.

Ten minutes ago, I was leaning against the front door, stretching after my morning run (yes, I'm running again). There was a noise off to my right, and I figured it was one of the chipmunks that live out front. But when I looked, I saw a skunk shuffling toward me, not three feet away.

I dashed off, hoping to get out of the fallout zone if he cut loose. I know I startled him as much as he startled me, because I heard him scrambling as I ran away. I paced on the sidewalk for several minutes, scared to go back, but smelling nothing, I eventually made my way back into the apartment.

Better stock up on hydrogen peroxide and baking soda.

6 comments:

fisherdv78 said...

there is nothing worse than the smell of skunk. It makes me nauseous to think about it! Good luck with it.

Anonymous said...

Here in St. Paul MN right in the city we have skunk problem. The animal control folks told us that if you see them in broad daylight to be careful because they may be rabid. Better run only in daytime!

Matt....... said...

I am willing to bet somewhere someone has eaten skunk, and I'm willing to bet also there's a recipie somewhere....I'll get right on that!

Anonymous said...

I thought you were supposed to use tomato juice? And Matt, I recall seeing "canned Skunk" in a store in virginia! (I think it was a joke)

Don, I'm sorry to inform you that I've failed at your bind off. I can't figure it out. I was beating up my yarn and getting my magic loop all tangled up. I'm going to try out a sewn bing off. It's suposed to be ok. I'll have a full report.

Cat Herself said...

Glad you escaped spraying this time. In response to Matt, I think skunk is not normally eaten because the spraying would preclude an appetizing meat. Or something.

Tallguy said...

I think skunks are rather short-sighted, so don't startle them! I once was out at night, just standing at a corner.. and felt something brush my leg. I looked down expecting a cat... but this one had 2 stripes! Okay, I froze, it sniffed around, and wandered off. And me?? After I started breathing again, I took off in the opposite direction!

I need to get myself that Cat (Bordhi) book real soon! I think I'll like this one.