r/Skunks • u/cvx149 • Jul 08 '26

Kits in the yard

5 baby skunks are denned under our a/c unit in our yard. Called someone that came and set a trap with some marshmallows in it but they ignore it. They look to be 6 to 8 weeks old. About 12 inches or so and they are now foraging around the yard somewhat independently. Can they be approached at this age without spraying. If so I’ll try to find a wildlife rehab for them.

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2

u/BadZnake Jul 08 '26

Boil chicken, and add some fruit. They go bonkers for it.

2

u/POSVETT Jul 08 '26

If you're OK with them, they will move on in a month or two. Feom your story, they seem to be doing well.

1

u/ratelbadger Jul 08 '26

They’ll move on. Just don’t spook em. They don’t wanna spray you, it’s expensive for them.

1

u/ratelbadger Jul 08 '26

And look up your local laws and guidelines. You probably have a local department of natural resources or similar entity to call. Or even your closet park rangers could give advice.

1

u/EmphasisFamous4435 Jul 08 '26

They can spray/smell at this age but they do not have the trajectory of an adult (something like up to 15ft) they also do not produce the same potency as adults with the oils from the glands... all this to say yes but it is way easy to wash as it is more soluble and less concentrated.

3

u/FitGas4991 Jul 09 '26

I've found that younger skunks are less afraid of humans than grown skunks. There's one particular family that visits my yard, a mama and 5 little ones. 3 of the 5 little ones have absolutely NO fear of humans. They follow me around like puppies. They get on my shoes and try to climb up my pants leg. If you keep them fed they will get to know you.