Don't
Let Skunks Stink Up Your Party
Skunks are weasel-like animals that are about the size of an average cat. They have short, stocky legs and large feet with well-developed claws for digging. They are nocturnal, relatively mild-tempered animals that feed on plants and other small animals. Insects are their favorite food and skunks will often damage turf and lawn areas digging for them. They are usually not a problem unless they are cornered or harmed. When skunks become alarmed they can discharge a musk from their anal glands that has a horrible, nauseating smell. There are four or five species of skunks in the U.S., but the striped skunk is the most common. Striped skunks have big lateral white stripes down their backs. Normally skunks make dens in a variety of natural habitats, however, when given the opportunity, they will get into garbage and may take up residence under porches, decks, mobile homes or other protected locations.
Skunks can carry a variety of diseases that may affect humans or other animals including rabies, distemper, and histoplasmosis. If a skunk starts living in or under your home, never try to remove it by force. Most skunks can be lured out or a burrow with fish-flavored, canned cat food, sardines, or peanut butter. If a skunk ever appears aggressive, leave it alone and call your local animal control agency, a pest management company or a trapping service. Once the animal has been removed, check the space for young. If none are found, immediately seal, screen, or close off the area (preferably using wire mesh, sheet metal, or concrete). A professional trapping service or pest management company should be able to help you with trapping, removal, relocation and structural repair or advice. Check with your local or state wildlife officials before having a skunk removed. Some skunk species are protected in several states (e.g. spotted skunks) and most skunks come under “Fur Bearing Animal” regulations in many states.
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