Skunk population on the rise in Chicago

Browsing USATODAY.com I came across an interesting and revolting report concerning the increase in the population of skunks in the city of Chicago. “Skunk Population Balloons in Chicago Suburbs.” (Oct 23 2011)

Apart from the obvious considerations revolving around the practicalities of sharing living space with such vile pests, I could not help but take a slightly more humorous approach to the situation. Easier to do when you have an Ocean and several thousand miles separating me from the problem.

Few would be ignorant of the nickname attached to Chicago. The “Windy City” is recognised around the globe and many people will gain a sneaky, smug sense of satisfaction at knowing the useful piece of general knowledge.

However, I am fairly confident that a large proportion of those knowledgeable people will be unaware of the true origins as to the acceptance of the affectionate moniker. Suffice is to say that it does not reflect on the meteorological tendencies of the city. For those of you who do not know the real reason, you can look it up.

The “Skunk” article did lead me to muse as to further confusion that may ensue as a direct cause of the notoriously 'stinky' black and white mammals. Supposing the air in and around Chicago becomes compromised by the creatures, it is possible that a new erroneous impression may develop as to the origins of the adoption of the nickname, the “Windy City.”