Smell of Skunks Mean Spring in Indiana
ELKHART, Ind. - Spring is in the air — and it stinks.
While the groundhog may receive more media attention, some Hoosiers say it's skunks that are the true heralds of the coming of spring. And if the smelly critters are to be believed, it's here.
"You can always tell when the frost comes out of the ground. That's when all the skunks come," said Dave Hess, who farms in northern Indiana's Elkhart County.
"I've noticed the last three days, all of a sudden they're on the move big time," he said. "It's springtime."
Perhaps that's because in spring a young skunk's fancy turns to thoughts of other skunks. Males of the species travel more during February seeking mates for the annual courting season.
And to a skunk seeking a new den, an accessible basement may be irresistible.
"This is the time of year we hear a lot of reports of skunk sightings and skunk spraying because they're out doing their business," said Dr. Jerry Sellon, a Wakarusa veterinarian.
Though generally not troublesome, skunks will sometimes make themselves unwelcome around human residences by spraying their repugnant musk in confrontations with dogs, in scrapes with automobiles or disagreements with other wildlife, even other skunks.
Sellon advises keeping a safe distance — skunks' spray can be accurate up to 10 feet — but if dogs or cats — or humans — run afoul of the spray, he recommends tomato juice.
Bathing in it, not drinking it.
Skunks, a member of the weasel family, have contrasting black and white fur and a long, bushy tail. Typically cat-sized, they range from about five to 10 pounds in weight.
Skunks are beneficial in that they feed on insects, grubs, spiders and even an occasional mouse or vole. They also include frogs, crawfish, bird and reptile eggs and some plant matter in their diet.
But for Elkhart County Highway Department employees, they mean more work. During spring and summer, workers may receive calls on an almost daily basis to remove the remains of skunks whose spray failed to deter an oncoming car.
A skunk isn't just a sign of spring, said Mike Beasey, administrative coordinator for the department. "It's a sign of a smelly job," he said.
not totally bad tho not everyone should
Suddenly, armadillos don't seem so bad after all . . .
Got a new job at a golf club and that's all I've been seeing lately.....They are some UGLY critters..... 
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{I'm not crying those are my eyes watering from allergies}
