Blue Ridge Wildlife Center Patient of the Week – Striped Skunk

“Phew! What is that smell?!” That is the sweet smell of love for our Striped Skunk neighbors. Breeding season for Striped Skunks begins as early as mid-February and goes through April. With hormones raging these little critters tend to get distracted and accidents inevitably happen.

Photos / Blue Ridge Wildlife Center

This skunk (pictured) was admitted to our hospital after being hit by a car, most likely on his mission to find love, and was suffering from severe head trauma. Please use extra caution this time of year, especially at dawn and dusk when skunks are more active.

Though they are known for their odor and unpopular den choices, skunks are generally not aggressive and they serve an important role by feeding on many “pests” such as insects and mice.

They are most active at night, and don’t want to spray unless they believe their life is in danger. If you see a skunk, respect it’s space, and slowly exit the area.

If a skunk is behaving oddly or appears ill, or if you believe there are babies in need of help, do not try to handle them yourself. Skunks are considered a high-risk rabies vector species and handling them can result in life-threatening consequences for you and them. Call BRWC at (540) 837-9000 or your local permitted rehabilitator.

This patient has become more alert and has started eating on his own. We hope that this skunk will continue to improve and be ready for release soon!