Never mind, it stinks...
One night the kids and I returned home after dark from a trip to town. Levi was in charge of the chickens and I pulled into the lower lot so my car lights would shine towards the coop; giving him enough light to feed them and gather the eggs. He opened the door and entered; when he exited a few seconds later he had a stunned look on his face. I guess three skunks in a 5’ by 5’ coop rattles you just a little bit. Well, as most of you probably know chickens and skunks do not cohabitate in a friendly manner. This would usually be where Juel stepped up to the plate, but he was in Malta taking care of some church responsibilities. With no husband and no gun, I turned to Ross, he graciously grabbed his 22 and came to our aid.
Ross headed to the coop to check things out, Levi as his assistant. I bravely held the gun at the far end of the coop. Ross popped back out to get the gun, confirming Levi’s report of three skunks. Levi stayed at his post, albeit with lots of disgusting noises. Returning, Ross took position and shot the first intruder. Levi was carrying on rather loudly about the situation and the skunk. From my well- ventilated corner, I was trying to talk him down and said something to the effect of, “Levi, calm down, it’s not that bad!” Ross came walking out and looked at me with tears running down his face and said, “OH, YES IT IS!”
I can’t remember how the rest of the culprits where dealt with, seems like maybe Ross took out one more and the third dirty little cheese ball escaped, but the images and sounds of that moment are branded on my memory. Taking into account the situation, I managed not to laugh that night, but every time I relate the incident and my memory pulls up the image of Ross’s face and the pitch of his wretched rejoinder, the laughter can’t be contained.
Anyway, with the skunks gone the surviving chickens (No, not me, the feathered ones) and the mighty hunters could call it and night and go to bed. . .well, maybe after a shower!
P.S. Thanks Ross for coming to our rescue on this and other occasions, and for supporting Juel in his callings.
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Surely a good skunk story brings a memory to your mind... send it my way! jami_c_hurst@hotmail.com
Thanks to Kristen and Laura for getting a picture! Sure adds to the enjoyment of a post!
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