There we were, sailing across the Chesapeake in moderate winds when, something small and hard clattered into the cockpit from the masthead. For a moment were were terrified that i must be some critical pin, and that any moment the mast would go over the side. But upon closer inspection, it was a jawbone.
A brief Google search confirmed it was most probably from a raccoon.
But how did that get up there? I can only assume an owl was responsible, since I clean owl pellets off the deck now and them. Seems more likely than an osprey.
But then what explains this chunk of asphalt, neatly lodged on my aft starboard aka? I doubt a bird carried it. Why would a racoon, and besides, there were no sings of attempted forced entry, which I would expect if raccoons were about.
It's a puzzlement.
Hey Drew, I stumbled onto your blog while stream of consciousness browsing the internet. As a climber/sailor and visitor to the Chesapeake region, I'm excited to have found a kindred spirit. Glad to see you're out this time of year, the folks here at Chesapeake Isle look at me like crazy as I tote the kayak down to the water in the near freezing temperatures. If you're looking for some company on a chilly day, I'd be more than happy to go for a rip! The content here is great, and I'm looking forward to checking out your book on anchoring. Cheers! -Steve
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