We had many encounters with skunks, birds, opossums, and raccoons who visited our lake home at odd hours of the day and night. We sometimes awaked to strange noises and knocking. We were frightened at first until we realized that we were in the animals' home territory and they were just exploring new spaces that were being built by people. We also learned more about animals than we might have if we had not met them face to face. Have you had unexpected visits with animals?