Skunk, Tough Guy
The skunk is the tough guy
of the American woods.
Black and white fur is a
warning well-understood.
A skunk can spray about ten feet.
You can smell it for miles
driving down the street.
Intimidated by his stinky spray,
when he stomps and hisses,
even bears back away!
Except great horned owls,
skunks have little to fear.
Skunks eat ‘most anything
and live ‘most anywhere.
Insects, salamanders, moles
…their diet varies;
for desert, skunks love
sweet, juicy berries.
Immune to snake venom,
They eat rattlesnake meat.
With fur to protect them,
bees and wasps are a treat.
If you ever crowd a skunk,
don’t be surprised
if this tough guy sprays you,
and you’re ostracized.
Soap and tomato juice
won’t make ammends;
you’ll be kept at a distance
by all of your friends.
You’ll have time for your
smart phone, TV, and tunes.
No need to worry…
You’ll smell better soon!
Reprinted from Hanging Out with Wild Animals III
an environmentally-themed book series for ages eight to twelve
Copyright© 2019 by Cheryl Batavia
