We are well aware that we are not alone here at Stone Wall Garden. Having squared off with a surprised skunk and heard the calls of the coyotes, we tend to be inside when darkness falls. Hornets are another matter. Leaving them alone is a good choice if their home is at some distance from the garden or the house. If they are close to garden traffic, using a spray that is also toxic to me seems dumb. Fortunately we have help.
This freshly dug hole is a bit of a puzzle. No disturbed soil was found near the hole. Skunks digging for grubs usually leave a smaller hole and soil scattered around the hole. Some ground dwelling bees or hornets may have lived here. Skunks eat both the bee larvae and any stored honey leaving little behind. Since we mow here we were pleased to find the stinging insects gone.
A peculiar gait is needed to safely traverse our old pastures. When the foot is placed, one must be sure that the footing is solid before full weight is thrown on that step. Holes or the edges of buried stones can throw the unwary to the ground. A downward gaze can help one avoid stepping on snakes or other unfortunate items. This dropping was between the garden and the compost bin, and I was fortunate to see it rather than step in it. Grub hunting has been productive as we have many holes in the lawn and many night deposits.
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