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much less dangerous than is generally supposed. It never throws its 
scent except in self defence, and then not more than 8 or 10 feet, although 
the spray may be carried somewhat farther in a strong wind. Various 
experts state that the surest way to kill a skunk without smell is to 
drown it, but the writer can guarantee no safe way to get the skunk 
to water. Seton (1929) and other authorities assert that the skunk is 
harmless if held up by the tail, but like other methods of “belling the cat” 
it is not always safe for the amateur. The skunk, however, is a careful 
and cleanly animal and does not willingly soil its own fur, even if caught 
in a trap. It may be easily and painlessly killed by approaching cautiously 
from one side and dealing a heavy blow with a club across the small of 
the back, over the kidneys. Shooting spoils the skin for the fur market, 
and if the animal is not instantly killed some fluid may be ejected. How- 
ever, a charge of small shot at medium range in the lower part of the back 
