True or False: A skunk will give several warning signs before it sprays.
True!
A skunk's spray is a finite resource and they will not spray unless it is unavoidable. Foot stamping, tail raising, and hissing are all signals meaning stop and back away!
What to know about baby skunks
Baby skunks, also called kits, are born through May and June and remain in the den for around eight weeks. Skunks are usually born in litters of four to six siblings. Although skunks are nocturnal, it is not uncommon to see a skunk during the day at this time of year, as nursing mothers often venture out to look for food.
Mother skunks can get scared away from their young temporarily by human interference or predators, but they should return to retrieve them within the next twelve hours. If you find a baby skunk alone, leave it where it is and monitor for the mothers return.
How can you tell if a baby skunk needs help?
If their mother has not returned for them in 12 hours or overnight
If they have sustained an injury
If another animal has attacked them
If any of these apply, it is time to call Calgary Wildlife at 403-214-1312, where expert advice will be given to help navigate each unique situation.
What to do with a skunk in your yard!
It is common to spot a skunk in your yard, as skunks in urban areas like to build dens under decks and buildings. As skunks have multiple dens and frequently move around between them, if you see one regularly visiting your yard through May or June it is likely that there are babies in that den.
Leave the skunk alone and give it as much space as possible and avoid taking any measures to remove the den until after kit season is over. If you have a dog, call and make some noise before letting it out to alert the skunk in advance and avoid incidents between your pet and the skunk.
Co-existing with local wildlife is imperative to the health of our ecosystems and communities!
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