In a time long past, a Coyote encounters a Tip-beetle on a path near Fat Mountain. The Coyote, eager to catch the Beetle, is interrupted when the Beetle claims to hear something alarming from below. The Coyote, intrigued, listens closely. The Beetle fabricates a story about a forthcoming punishment for those who defile the trails, causing the Coyote to panic about his recent actions. Fearing retribution, the Coyote flees the scene. The Beetle, relieved and joyful, celebrates by performing acrobatics and burying his head in the sand. This encounter explains the Beetle's peculiar behavior of kicking its heels and hiding its head, illustrating themes of cleverness and survival.
By Frank Hamilton Cushing · First published 1883 · Genre: Fable, Folklore, Children's Literature