I have had something digging up ferns and other shade plants, not eating them, just digging holes around the root ball and seemingly pulling them up. From what I've read, skunks can do this while looking for grubs. My best guess. :)

I have had similiar experiences with newly planted stuff. Basically, the smell of the newly turned earth tells animals that there must be something buried there that is interesting. It could be a skunk or a groundhog that did it, both would probably eat the whole thing. I try and plant early in the day so the smell is not as fresh for the nocturnal creatures.

A skunk will not hurt you and will get away from you as fast as possible. they will only spray if you have them cornered or stand between them and their children.
They can however make you stink! But you would have to overtly threaten it.

They are fascinating creatures. Wish I had one!

Skunks can carry rabies, more so than most other animals. Beware if you see one acting strangely in the daytime. They are also prone to distemper , so not every sick skunk has rabies.