The recent story in the Times-Standard about the possible return of the Shasta wolf pack made me think of the wildlife we have around my house in Cutten. Here’s an inventory:
Wolves- no wolves in Cutten. If I ever saw one I’d probably faint. I wish them well. Of course I don’t own livestock.
Foxes- my neighbor claims we have foxes in Cutten. I’ve never seen one. Foxes, like wolves, are pretty reclusive.
Bears- I’ve had bears in my backyard on two occasions that I know of. About five years ago, in the predawn hours, my dog was going crazy in the backyard, barking and barking. I couldn’t see what she was barking at. After awhile I had a Sheriff’s deputy at the door. Some folks clear over in Quail Ridge had called about the noise. he deputy- a very nice female- and I went out into the back yard just as it was starting to be light. We both saw the bear jump over my six-foot fence. I was glad I had a witness. It’s happened at least one other time, without a deputy.
Deer- the last time was a couple of weeks ago. They come up a trail from the greenbelt to the house across the street and walk up T Street. I see them over by the Cutten Post Office too. They must be getting their mail.
Raccoons- all over the place. Sometimes they congregate on Fern Street. When they have something they’re eating, they hold their ground and won’t move for cars or anything else. At night they’re positively scary with their glowing eyes. Look like little demons.
Skunks-a baby skunk came into the yard and the dog went nuts. The baby was under a little table and the dog just kept barking and barking. It was so cute that momentarily I would have traded the dog for it. I learned on North Woods Law last night that skunks deplete their scent glands when they spray and then you have a few hours when you can approach without fear. I love my junk TV.
That’s about it for wildlife out here. You have to go over to Sequoia Park for squirrels. What critters do you host? This is one of the things I love most about living in Eureka.
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