Baby skunks often den under sheds, decks, and other quiet backyard spaces, especially in the spring. If traps are set or pest control is used during this time, the mother may be caught or scared away, leaving her babies abandoned. Providing food, water, or shelter—or having neighbors who feed stray cats—can unintentionally attract wildlife into your yard, but it’s simple and far more humane to encourage skunks to move on without harming them. Coexisting with wildlife is not only kinder, it’s usually much cheaper than pest control. Click below for humane solutions and more information on helping skunks safely relocate.