Click below to listen to my 2 min. Garden Bite radio show: Mischief night and nature’s nocturnal creatures
On the east coast the night before Halloween was called “Mischief Night” when the “other” kids pulled pranks on their neighbors.
But what mischief might lurk in the garden at night? The top prankster would have to be the raccoon!
They’re really cute and really naughty! From tossing our garbage to making their home in our uncapped chimneys, they are a nuisance to say the least. The MN DNR on Raccoons. Wisconsin DNR on raccoons
Toads, those warty, croaking creatures come out at night to eat insects and other small animals.
They may not be pretty but they are definitely valuable. Toads need to be on the lookout for shrews. Shrews are ferocious little things that will attack and kill animals bigger than they are. They need to eat their own weight each night! They weigh less than an ounce but carry quite an attitude in those very sharp little teeth. How shrews survive winter… you’ll be surprised!
The badger is a nocturnal feeder with a reputation for ferocity.
It’s actually not as mean as you might think and has been known to share a den with the red fox. However, don’t corner this guy, you won’t like the outcome. They’re the only mammal that can tunnel in after a pocket gopher in it’s hole and get it! For that I say, keep them around just not too close!
The nocturnal coyote has made a comeback in recent years.
Their fur is soft, warm and luxurious but don’t be deceived, these guys are predators, keep Fifi in the house or she’s dinner. Hear him howling in the night. Keep a lookout on Saturday night!!