Immediately outside of my front office window hanging at eye level from what must be a mulberry bush is a colorful hanging birdfeeder dish that I set up for the cardinals who frequent my area. Naturally, this easily accessible feeder is also regularly visited by squirrels despite my regularly leaving a copious amount of seeds on the ground for their consumption.

Most of the time I ignore the squirrels, resigning myself to knowing that I will get the occasional pair of cardinals stopping by with the remaining time given over to the furry-tailed rodent gang.

Recently, however, I have taken to fighting back. On warm days I prop open the window, grab a cold glass of water sitting on the nearby sill, and soak the squirrels when they stop by. Squirrels move fast, but on several occasions I have managed to see one run off with a fully drenched tail.

Before you contact the ASPCA to register your complaint, please realize that the water is cold, but not frigid. I have considered scalding the 'lil boogers, but have decided I shouldn't be so cruel. Besides, I really need to concentrate on completing my writing projects and not on vanquishing the nervy local squirrel population.

At least for now.

Copyright 2006