Since we moved to Casa Corvidae in April of 2020, we’ve had lots of critters on the property. I try hard to balance the needs of humans with the whims of the critters, and for the most part, I’m pleased with the balance. The skunks, though, are a bit contentious.

Thank goodness my husband adores me.

The thing is, I love skunks. I had one as a foster for a short time when I was in Jr. High, and he was the sweetest thing. So, soft spot much.

Every year here, we get a litter of two. I am charmed by their antics - the husband is tolerant since it brings me so much joy - as long as they don’t damage his cactus garden too much.

Every evening, at Chicken 30, I go out and close the gate, lock the chickens in their roost, feed the feral cat MoMA, check on my studio critters (a Vinegaroon and a scorpion), and lock up the studio and shed. The last several nights, I’ve had company.

Two rambunctious juvie skunks.

Tick and Tack are hysterical. Tick gambles up to eat MoMA’s food. Tack has a thing for the shed and all of the goodies I keep in there: cat food, chicken feed, wild bird food - the black oil sunflowers are a favorite. MoMA takes a wide berth, and I’ve made friends. So… no spraying. In fact, they are so comfortable, even when surprised, we haven’t had an incident.

So, for your amusement, I’ve pulled some of the nighttime camera footage I have of them.