Skunks are excellent pest controllers, eating insects, rodents, snakes, and yellowjacket nests.

• Daytime activity is normal, especially during the spring and summer (baby season) and winter months with warmer day temperatures

• Poor eyesight—may not see you

• Quickly become hypothermic

• Spray only if threatened (they reserve this defense mechanism because it takes 10 days to replenish)

• DO NOT use rat poison - the poisoned mouse/rat will kill any animal, including your cat if they consume the poisoned mouse/rat

Orphaned or Injured:

• Infants should never be without mom or siblings 

• Fluffy fur does not equal healthy kit

• Keep the animal warm, dark, and quiet

• Use gloves and a towel to place in a secured container

• Gently tuck their tail to reduce spraying risk

• If spayed, DO NOT use water to clean. Only use hydrogen peroxide, dish detergent, and baking soda - combine these ingredients, lather, and then rinse. You may apply it to your body, clothes, and your dog. 

• If bitten, the skunk must be euthanized—never allow handling.

Public Notice:  The canine distemper virus is predominately the killer of most wildlife. The victims usually present with ocular and nasal discharge (“goopy” eyes and snotty nose), lethargy, head pressing due to a severe headache, ataxia (walking drunk like), tremors or seizures, and unaware of their surroundings. If you encounter a skunk with such symptoms, please contact NC Wildlife Rehab immediately at 704-877-3037. No animal should be left to suffer a horrible death. Humane euthanasia is the last gift we can provide animals suffering. 

➡️ Text NC Wildlife Rehab: 704-877-3037 if you find an injured, orphaned, or sick skunk.