Rare orphaned skunks return to the wild

By Ben Barry

A group of rare western spotted skunks has been released back into the wild.

The four orphaned skunks were returned to the wild after weeks of rehabilitation at San Diego Humane Society's Ramona Wildlife Center.

They were returned to a carefully selected remote habitat in Valley Center, California, after reaching the necessary weight and developmental milestones to thrive on their own.

The release included an orphaned skunk who was flown by Flying Tails Animal Rescue more than 400 miles from Sierra Wildlife Rescue in Northern California to join an orphaned group in Ramona.

The four skunks look curiously and step out of their crate before sniffing out their new home.

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Western spotted skunks are considered "elusive and rare" to encounter in the wild, and are generally found in remote forested areas and are not as common in urban neighbourhoods.

Autumn Welch, wildlife operations manager at the Ramona Wildlife Center, said: "We have never seen this many western spotted skunks in a single season before.

"Because they are more reclusive than striped skunks, they require very specific care and even more secluded release sites to ensure they can stay wild."

While four members of the group have returned to the wild, two spotted skunks remain in care at the facility.

The smallest skunk was moved to an outside pre-release habitat and introduced to a slightly older skunk in late June.

Wildlife officials said by keeping the pair together, the wildlife team ensures the younger skunk will have a companion to learn from until they are both ready to be released, likely within the next month or two.