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Friday, February 11, 2011

Skunks.....Q&A!

WHERE DO SKUNKS LIVE?
Skunks live primarily in wooded areas.  The only time you will find them out of their "home" environment is when the sun goes down and they are looking for food.  They are also very sensitive to light, which is why they stay in their dens during the sunniest part of the day.

WHAT DO SKUNKS EAT?
Common foods include insects, grubs, mice, eggs, berries, grains, and nuts. This omnivore also eats carrion (dead animals, often on roadsides), which may explain why skunks frequently become road kill!

WILL A SKUNK HARM MY PETS?
Because of illnesses and its potential for stench, a skunk lurking on your property can pose a danger to house pets. Skunks have been known to bite both cats and dogs, and if the skunk has rabies or distemper, beware. Skunk musk takes months to wear off completely from house pets, and will resurface time and time again when your house pet gets wet in the rain or bath.

HOW DO I GET RID OF THE DREADED "SKUNK FUNK" (aka being sprayed by a skunk)?
You will probably need something stronger than soapy water to get rid of skunk oils -- a solution of vinegar or peroxide will dissolve and remove the odor-causing oils instead of just spreading them around. Try this mixture:

1 liter (or quart) white vinegar OR 3% hydrogen peroxide (peroxide may cause bleaching)
1/4 c. Baking soda.
1 tsp. dish detergent (also a de-greaser)

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