If you read the title, you will probably understand that I no longer have a backyard. It is now the skunk’s.

Other than a very close call a few years ago, sitting quietly with a friend late one night when a skunk wandered a little too close for comfort, I’ve never had any experience with these creatures. And, quite frankly, none is enough experience for me.

But then this stinker started coming around, and I started staying in. Will he never leave?

Curious, I began experimenting. One day I tested his response when I knocked on the window – tail up, head down, I’m not sure he hears very well. Another time I banged on the door frame – minimal reaction, maybe because of the vibration. I opened the door and let it slam closed – he’s really not too concerned or threatened. Well, he does have some heavy artillery behind him. A few times Luc gently chased him out of the yard but it doesn’t matter what we do, the little fella keeps coming back.

Today I just observed and chuckled as I realized it was like a reverse zoo. The yard is becoming a little overgrown now, the grass a rich green without daily baseball practice and obstacle courses and tree climbing. There are birds and bunnies, chipmunks and squirrels, dandelion and a big patch of forget-me-nots in the distance.

I’m starting to respect that skunk. He’s more beautiful than I expected, a slight little thing that works with purpose and vigour, markings of white behind his head and on the tip of his tail but not down the back as I expected. His nose is narrow and he uses it like a tool as he digs out fresh grubs, maybe to bring back to his kids. He’s not aggressive and, whether or not I’m using the correct pronouns, he’s definitely no Pepe le Pew.

Anyway, it’s hot outside and cool in my comfy leather chair, and I have my own little nature aquarium to keep me entertained. I’ll just use the front yard, little fella. It’s all good.