my heartstrings have been plucked by a possum
The Daily Bucket is a regular feature of the Backyard Science group. It is a place for the community to note any observations they have made of the natural world around them. Each note is a record that we can refer to in the future as we try to understand the patterns of the outdoors that are quietly unfolding around us.
Gooseville, WI
You may or may not have met the possum that has lived under my deck since last November in the bucket diaries, here and here. Her benign and quirky daily and nightly visits to the bird feeder leftovers caused my heart to swell with critter love and compassion. Her antics made me laugh and smile throughout a long harsh Wisconsin winter.
Even the peahen that moved in to live on top of the deck in September, approved of the silly possum's presence. Her story is here.
We all thrived and survived the winter together.
That possum taught me how prehensile tails carry fresh bedding to the den, while stopping to nibble a midnight snack. I was amazed.
When the temperature got below zero, she brazenly hit the hot-tub of the heated water dish. I was charmed and laughed with delight.
Everyday around three in the afternoon she waddled out from her den and plopped into the spa and lounged for minutes. She gave me joy in the surprise.
She splashed and dallied in her hot-tub each day. I didn't know possums did that.
A dark, silky lover showed up a few days ago. He was attentive and stayed by her side for three days. She didn't seem to care when he left, but I felt sad. I like love stories and looked forward to watching tiny possum babies cling to her fur this spring.
The other day I took a short walk and found her broken body on the road. I think we all can agree that most possums we see are smashed on the road by vehicles. Her guts were spewed across the pavement and I felt sick. I placed her body safely off the road.
I cried in sobs, while walking home. In her short life, she taught me how to appreciate and love a possum. The turkey vultures have arrived, so the circle of life continues.
Dang. That stung hard.
This bucket is open for discussion and condolences. What's happening in your neighborhood today?
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