Abilene Sees Increase in Skunk Population: What to Do?

1. Do not feed the skunks. They can easily become dependent on human food sources.

2. Never leave pet food outside, particularly at night.

3. Never discard edible garbage where skunks can find access to it.

4. Secure garbage bags to eliminate odors to discourage scavenging.

Skunks are the primary source for rabies in Texas and human and domestic pet contact with skunks should be avoided. For more information about skunks and skunk prevention tips, visit http://www.abilenetx.com/index/happenings.htm. 

Beginning March 1, 2013, the City's Trapping Program will be modified to allow Animal Services field officers to concentrate on high-risk animals that have a greater potential for carrying rabies. These animals include foxes, raccoons, coyotes and skunks.  Animal Services field officers will pick up trapped high-risk animals while citizens continue to trap and bring nuisance animals to the Abilene Animal Shelter. Nuisance animals include feral cats, squirrels, opossums or other small rodents. 

Citizens can pick up traps from the Abilene Animal Shelter, located at 925 S. 25^th St.  Citizens may drop off any trapped nuisance animals at the shelter for impound between the hours of 10:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Due to the high demand for traps, citizens may call the Abilene Animal Shelter at 325-698-0085 and select option "7" to be placed on the trap waiting list. The Trap Program is free of charge to citizens.