By Storrm Lennie

How to avoid a smelly encounter with a skunk

Mar 27, 2019 | 7:13 PM

It’s a smelly situation that can be avoided if you keep a few tips in mind.

Medicine River Wildlife Center (MRWC) is advising the public on how to deal with skunk encounters as the start of skunk breeding season begins.

In recent years, the number of skunk encounters in the Spruce View area has increased. MRWC says this is directly related to human activity and are advising people to be extra cautious when leaving garbage, pet food, compost bird feeders and fallen fruit near their homes as skunks are attracted to that and if food is provided, they will come and bring their families.

Medicine River Wildlife Center has dealt with hundreds of calls concerning skunks and has one staff member dedicated to solving this conflict. They’ve released a list of tips on how to avoid any unpleasant interactions with them.

Those who encounter a skunk should talk quietly and move away from the animal. Skunks only react with a squirt of musk when they feel their life is in danger. Chasing them, yelling, or throwing things at them will be perceived as a threat.

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Those with pets are advised to step outside ahead of their animals and speak loudly. If a skunk hears you, they will run and hide which will help avoid surprises.

Those who do have a run in with their pet and a skunk use can craft their own shampoo to help mask the smell. The Shampoo can be made from 4 cups 3% hydrogen peroxide, ¼ cup baking soda, 1 teaspoon liquid dish soap

Residents are also advised to keep structures in backyards properly enclosed to avoid unwanted guests digging underneath, as well as to keep yards uncluttered to avoid giving skunks the ability to habitat. Homeowners with sheds are advised to put them on skids 6 inches off the ground.

The Medicine River Wildlife Center also reminds members of the public to never trap and remove skunks on their own as this can result in cruelty and does not solve the problem at its source, instead juts places the skunk in someone else’s backyard.

by Storrm Lennie

How to avoid a smelly encounter with a skunk

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