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mous numbers of the largest insects, both adult and larval. They 
catch frogs, salamanders, mice, and other small mammals, and they 
eat the eggs and nestlings of such birds as nest low, sometimes, no 
doubt, getting the birds themselves. Unfortunately for its reputa- 
tion the skunk does not hesitate to take the farmer’s eggs and 
poultry when they come in its way, and when once it discovers 
where they may be found it shows considerable persistence and cun- 
ning in getting them. Eggs are eaten on the spot. Fowls are 
killed by a bite on the neck, and are usually carried away. 
The young, six to ten in number, are produced in spring. 
The skunk does not hibernate except in very severe weather— 
probably not at all in this locality. 
Under present conditions in the county, there is probably no 
mammal more unjustly persecuted than the skunk. Its offensive 
odor is only used in self-defense, and it is easy to guard against its 
raids on poultry-yards. A less defensible damage is that caused by 
its destruction of the eggs and nestlings of ground-nesting birds; 
but whatever damage may be done in this way is undoubtedly more 
than compensated by its destruction of enormous quantities of 
grubs, grasshoppers, large beetles, etc., and by the large numbers of 
mice and voles which it destroys. Merriam says on this subject: 
“T do not hesitate to assert that a single skunk nets the farmer more 
in dollars and cents each year than he loses from their depredations 
during his entire lifetime.” 
The skin of the skunk forms an important article of the fur trade, 
its value depending largely on the color, as well as on its size and 
condition. In general, the more nearly black a skin is, the more 
valuable it 1s. 
The flesh of the skunk is said to be white and tender and of de- 
licious flavor. It is needless to say that the scent-glands should be 
carefully removed before cooking. 
Those who have had the temer ity to try it, assert that the skunk, 
if taken young, makes an inoffensive and delightful pet, becoming 
gentle and playful, and showing no inclination to use its battery. 
Skunks are easily trapped, their self-confidence making them 
exceedingly careless. 
