They're not aggressive, but they are also largely unafraid of people, probably because they know they likely won't be bothered. They're weasels, not rodents, so they aren't gnawers...although virtually any critter might chew through the soft insulation on wiring. They dig, but don't usually cause structural issues...usually. They can totally wreck your lawn digging for grubs. They are one of the most prevalent carriers of rabies.
They don't just spray for the fun of it...but the smell is so clinging and pervasive and persistent that they always stink. Just having one go through your yard in the middle of the night can leave a scent that is still easily detected the next morning. Getting sprayed with one...or having your dog sprayed with one...is absolutely disgusting. Eyes water, choking...it's like a slightly less intense version of mace.
Don't feel left out, Esox...I'm drawing up a petition requesting the Canuckistan gummint to relocate a breeding population of skunks to the UK so you folks can share in the joy of observing these delicate woodland creatures go about their daily lives.
Yes! Pretty easy going creatures. I'm guessing the holes in my lawn are made by the skunks. I also have possums, squirrels, and raccoons that visit. But I know I've seen skunks dig in the yard. Cruising around the internet, it says cat food usually doesn't work in traps. Apparently they loove grubs. Another thing that comes up is using dog pee, or coyote pee. They recognize the scent of a predator and figure out they need to leave. It makes sense. I don't have a dog. Maybe it's why wildlife always seems to get chummy with me here. Anyway I don't think I have got a skunk spray in the house since last night, and I did not hear anything at all last night.
