You might see a wild Corpus Christi skunk that made your den its home. You may be worried that like all wild animals, they can be carriers of rabies and other diseases that can harm you and your family.



You can have some peace because the answer to this is no. Not all Corpus Christi skunks have rabies. This is one of the biggest myths that circulate in many households. There are certain species that do carry rabies but not ALL of the skunks have it.

This does not mean that you should be careless toward Texas skunks. If you did not domesticate the skunks, chances are, you might get sprayed with its repulsive liquid. They are known to have scent glands attached to their anus to protect themselves from predators. These scent glands can emit a very bad odor when the skunks feel unsafe or threatened. As with all wild animals, you should be careful when you handle skunks. They might not have rabies but they can be disease carriers.

The Number of Skunks that Carry Rabies
There are no accurate numbers with regards to this. However, of all the skunks tested, about 6% of them carry rabies. They are the first to be tested when it comes to diseases since they can be domesticated. Second and third in lines are raccoons and bats. Skunks are not prone to rabies. This is especially true if they live in a place where they have plenty of food to eat.

How to know if a Skunk has Rabies
You might notice a skunks’ aversion to water. You might see skunks in the daylight with too much saliva in their mouths. Although not all skunks that are present in the daylight have rabies, the best thing that you can do is to leave them alone. If they do not do any harm on your property, let them pass and go with their ways. Skunks that are acting aggressively with pets without being provoked may display signs of being rabid. You have to alert the wildlife societies in your counties if you encounter skunks that act erratically.

What to Do
It is very rare to encounter a rabid skunk. They might die in the wilderness, or they might not have the strength to go to urban areas. But if you find one, you have to call the professionals who can handle the animals better. Skunks are given vaccines and they are given their needed help when they have diseases. After they are well, they are generally released in the wild.

Keep in mind that in some states, it is illegal to shoot skunks. Don’t try anything yourself as they might turn aggressive and you might find yourself inside a hospital after getting bitten. Skunks have lives and you should try to help them in the best possible way without endangering yourself or your family. You can read more about skunks at your local library or by searching the

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