California ground squirrels and rock squirrels chew up rattlesnake skin and smear it on their fur to mask their scent from predators, according to a new study by researchers at UC Davis. Barbara Clucas, a graduate student in animal behavior at UC Davis, observed ground squirrels (Spermophilus beecheyi) and rock squirrels (Spermophilus variegates) applying snake scent to themselves by picking up pieces of shed snakeskin, chewing it and then licking their fur. Adult female squirrels and juveniles apply snake scent more often than adult males, which are less vulnerable to predation by snakes, Clucas said. The scent probably helps to mask the squirrel's own scent, especially when the animals are asleep in their burrows at night, or to persuade a snake that another snake is in the burrow. full story

These squirrels are amazing: hot tails and perfume!

Why is cigarette smoking banned in most public places, while heavy perfume use remains completely acceptable? Most perfumes contain a mess of toxic chemicals known to cause a variety of health problems from weakening the immune system to cancer.

"Freedom of expression" isn't anymore valid with perfume than it is with smoking. Some people think smoking looks cool, some people think smoke smells good (I personally love the smell of tobacco smoke). So "personal expression" just doesn't cut it. The only difference I can see between air-choking perfume and second-hand smoke is political.

gacked from kyrene:

How Spoiled Are You?

( long survey )

I thought it was candy. But it wasn't. I have no idea what it was, but I can't get the taste out of my mouth. And now the perfume is drifting up my nose.

I met Mandy at the Diesel. I arrived at 7, forgetting that we were actually supposed to meet at 8. I waited endlessly for a seat. Everytime one opened up, it seemed someone who had just walked through the door snagged it. I eventually did find a seat, and ended up have a good time talking to Mandy.

Another good thing about my excursion: on the bus ride back, I broke through my writers block and wrote a poem.

The Bus deep groans and angry hisses high pitched screeching breaks over perfumed grumpy old ladies hard stale blue uninviting plastic seats oppressive heat blasts away at the delightfully cool weather outside opening the looming windows provides little relief from the sultry stagnant air bump bump bump squeal stop squeal stop I have actually paid for this nauseating ride