My Spring Fling KidLit Contest Entry

Phew! The Smelliest Sign of Spring

Before the crocus buds burst through the thawed soil, something less pleasant reminds us that Spring is on its way. 
 SKUNK!
That’s right! Stinky, smelly skunk spray is the first sure sign of Spring. 
Skunks mate in late February through April. Once mating season begins, everyone “nose” it. 
Male skunks spray each other while competing over mates. 
“Take that!”
Females may also spray males to scare away unwanted advances.
“And that!”
Once a female is pregnant, she searches for food. If something accidentally crosses her path, she stomps and hisses. If that doesn’t work, she SPRAYS!
The threat of stinky skunk spray stops most predators in their tracks. The Great-Horned Owl is one of the skunk’s only predators because they have no sense of smell. Lucky for them!
So when skunk spray fills your nostrils next February, remember the good news. Spring is on the way. Phew!