'Cute' skunk almost ruins Chicago home

CHICAGO, May 9 (UPI) -- For a little critter, the skunk under the Royals' home in Chicago did a mighty big job, including forcing them from the house, the displaced residents say.

The skunk almost ruined the $940,000 home and most of its belongings and chased the family to new digs.

That was a year ago and the problem hasn't been settled. Mark and Vicki Royal's five-bedroom home remains devoid of carpeting, drywall, appliances and belongings -- most of which have been thrown away, the Chicago Tribune said,

A hunk of money has been spent. It even triggered legislation and there's that battle with the insurance company.The Royals' son is known at school as "skunk boy."

When the family finally saw the stinky animal that started it all, they were struck by one thing: "It was actually very cute," Vicki Royal told the Tribune.