Skunk
Found a skunk?
Skunks are usually shy and only spray when they feel threatened. Give space, and get guidance quickly if one seems sick, injured, or is out unusually during the day.
If an animal is injured, orphaned, or displaced, contact licensed or permitted help before feeding or handling. Share what you are seeing so the animal can reach appropriate wildlife care.
Start here
Keep people and pets at a distance and stay calm and quiet.
Do not corner the skunk or block its escape route.
Take photos from a safe distance if you can do so without approaching.
Share the exact location and what the skunk is doing.
Do not do these while waiting for guidance
Do not approach, corner, or make sudden movements near a skunk.
Do not attempt to catch or contain it yourself.
Do not let pets investigate or engage with the skunk.
Why this matters
Distance is the best protection for you, your pets, and the skunk. A licensed contact can help you tell normal behavior from a sign that something is wrong.
Other situations to know
Does anything else apply here?
These situations can happen with any animal, including this one. Keep them in mind alongside the guidance above.
Found as an injured adult?
Adult wildlife can injure people when scared, even when they look weak. The best first step is distance, safety, photos, and a call to qualified help.
Do not attempt to capture adult wildlife unless instructed by a qualified person.
Do not grab, corner, chase, or throw a towel over it without guidance.
Take photos or video from a safe distance and share location, species, and visible injuries.
Hit by a vehicle?
Vehicle strikes can involve hidden injuries, traffic danger, and babies nearby. Stay safe first, then share exact location and visible details.
Do not step into traffic or block a roadway to reach the animal.
Call local emergency services or animal control when people or traffic are at risk.
Note the exact road, nearest cross street, and direction of travel.
Did tree work disturb a nest or den?
Tree trimming, removals, landscaping, and storm cleanup can expose nests or dens. Pausing work and getting guidance can prevent avoidable harm.
Stop work in the immediate area if it is safe to do so.
Keep equipment, pets, and foot traffic away from the babies or nest area.
Do not relocate babies to a random tree, box, or yard without guidance.