Sounds like the perfect job description for a turkey vulture. Most people think turkey vultures are disgusting. After working with them for a year, I happen to think they're one of nature's greatest creations. If you've ever wondered why you rarely see dead animals lying around for long, you can thank turkey vultures. Their stomach acid is so powerful it destroys bacteria that would make most animals seriously ill. They're nature's cleanup crew, helping stop disease before it has a chance to spread. Their bald heads have a purpose too. Without feathers covering their face, they can feed inside a carcass and stay much cleaner than they would otherwise. Not every animal is beautiful in the traditional sense. But every animal has a purpose. Turkey vultures just happen to have one of the messiest and one of the most important. What's your favorite misunderstood animal?

I got my skunk fix today from Helen at All Things Wild. This video features two sets of three orphaned skunks getting ready for their final journey back to the wild. Watching these little creatures stomping around like the little stinkers they are always makes me smile. I miss working with these babies. They fill me with such joy. Enjoy the entertainment. 🦨💚

It's almost time for our community to vote on the next animal organization we'll support. One of the ways to help make those donations possible is through Cause & Chaos Graphic Tees. Every design is inspired by animals, heart, and those moments in life that make us think, "Yep... I wish I'd said that out loud." 10% of net profits help support animal causes. If you've been thinking about picking up a shirt, now is a great time. Your purchase helps us continue supporting organizations making a difference for animals. Go have a look around. You deserve a heart smile and a good laugh today. ❤️ Mean What You Wear. ❤️

One of the things I love most is watching people come together and create something none of us could have created alone. I'm a member of a painting community called Painting for Drawing Dropouts, led by @Michelle Cyr who is also a member here in Empowering Animals. Recently, Michelle shared a story about an event she participated in where she invited 50 people to help paint a picture. Most told her they were worried they would ruin it. The only person who wasn't afraid was a four-year-old who simply picked up a brush and painted with abandon. She stated she wished she could give us all permission to paint like a four-year-old. To create without fear, to have fun and to simply enjoy the process. Since I've been experimenting with writing songs, I took what Michelle shared, combined it with what I've learned from her and my experiences in the group, and wrote a song inspired by her message. Then the magic of community took over. Michelle asked for a graphic to go with the song, and Kate Mack took that a step further and created a music video instead. What started as a simple conversation became something meaningful, fun, and beautiful because multiple people brought their talents and passion together. And if you watch closely, you might recognize a few familiar faces. Michelle definitely made it into the video, and I'm pretty sure I did too. Those glasses are a dead giveaway. Once I saw them, I just KNEW that was me. 😁 I've watched this video more times than I can count. Not only is it beautifully done and a lot of fun, but it also reminds me of the mission behind Empowering Animals. Animals are why we're here. But it takes people willing to share their gifts, talents, and hearts to create something beautiful. When we come together with a shared purpose, amazing things happen. Enjoy the video. ❤️🐾

What animal made a rare genetic muscle condition called myotonia congenita desirable to breeders? No Googling! 😄 Drop your guess below and I'll post the answer later today. 🐾