Skunks aren’t particularly aggressive animals, rather, they’re extremely territorial animals. Equipped with claws, teeth, and their signature spraying gland, it’s wise to observe skunks from a considerable distance. If you go near a skunk’s den, make it feel uncomfortable, or make it feel scared the skunk won’t be afraid to spray you and may even attack you. Skunks will also fight amongst each other for various reasons: be sure to keep your distance if you see skunks in an altercation.

Skunks are territorial rather than aggressive; they won’t go looking for a fight but if you come to their den, threaten, or go near them they will attempt to defend their territory. Skunks will claw, bite, and spray whomever they get in a fight with. The stench from a skunk’s spray can last up to 21 days if left untreated. The general rule is, if you leave a skunk alone, it will leave you alone.