Skunks are the interesting and smelly animals that most of us don't want around or near our property.  If you have ever been curious to know more, but want to do it from a distance, here are some skunk facts for you to enjoy.

* Some believe skunks are nocturnal. Because they tend to move about at night, this is the best time to seal off their dens or living quarters.  However, a more recent line of thinking is that skunks are

* Skunks can grow anywhere between 16" - 27" in length.

* Skunks generally weigh from just over 1 lb. to just over 6 lbs.

* They live from 7-10 years depending on their living conditions. Skunks tend to live longer in captivity.

* Skunks have been known to be carriers of rabies. This will happen if they are bitten by or eat an animal that is affected.  They are not the #1 carrier of rabies, raccoons are.

* Skunk spray does not carry rabies.

* Although they can spray up to 23 feet, they are only accurate up to 6 or 7 feet.

* The spray comes from the glands located on either side of the anus.

* Musk is another name for the spray.

* A skunk may give warning signs before it sprays. These may include: raised tail, stomping of feet, stiff legs and arched back.

* Several females may share a territory, but usually just one male with live in an area.

* Skunks do not have very good eyesight. So, if you encounter one, be quiet and walk away.

* They are non-confrontational for the most part. They usually spray in defense to a perceived threat.

* Males do not help to raise their young.

* They live in dens, under buildings and other spots they feel secure in.

* Skunks are not all bad, they like to eat the garden bugs and slugs that damage your crops.

These are just some of the very basic skunk facts. They are very interesting animals and fun to learn about!