Another Pest is Now Active in Massachusetts Neighborhoods

It's that time of year when Massachusetts is starting to experience more visible wildlife in residential neighborhoods and private properties, it's not rare to see deer, bobcats, coyotes, rodents, and more throughout the Bay State.

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I've mentioned before that I wake up in the overnight hours to go to work. Lately, when I've been leaving my house I have been smelling a skunk scent on a couple of occasions. Skunks are certainly active right now in Massachusetts. As a matter of fact, it's skunk breeding season.

When is Skunk Breeding Season in Massachusetts?

According to mass.gov breeding season for skunks typically occurs from February through March. In late April to early June, the female will excavate a den and give birth to 2–10 kits, which are born blind and helpless. If disturbed, females will move their kits to a new den. The kits do not leave the den until they are approximately 6 to 8 weeks old. So if you are seeing or smelling skunk activity as of late, this could be the reason for it.

As with other wild animals, if you want to keep skunks away from your house and yard you should do the following:

Secure garbage (keep lids on tight and bring your garbage outside on the actual day of pickup, not the night before.
Keep bird feeder areas clean
Keep an eye on your pet and feed them indoors.

If you are in the presence of a skunk, stay calm and slowly move away, giving the skunk a chance to move on.

Skunks are found throughout most of Massachusetts including Boston, Worcester, Springfield, etc. If you follow these tips, you should be able to coexist with nature's stinky creatures.

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Source: Another Pest is Now Active in Massachusetts Neighborhoods

Filed Under: Worcester, Springfield, Massachusetts, Boston

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