This concerns the safety of people and their animals being walked later in the day and any food left outside. Skunks are scavenger creatures and are often looking for food then go back to their den. Are there food and/or open containers left outside? When I refer to food, it is not always human food that attracts skunks. They are omnivorous and will eat anything they find from cat food, to grubs in yards or dead baby birds. The reason they prefer to come out later in the day is simply, most people are in their homes and not in the streets. As a protected species, they cannot be trapped by anyone other than a PAC agent and it is illegal to have them relocated anywhere in the state of Massachusetts.
Thank you.

Obviously not leaving food around… also, I am talking about an issue impacting the entire neighborhood, not my own residence. I understand if the city can’t trap them but surely there are other precautions that could be taken. Won’t this become a health hazard if they have rabies? Won’t roadkill attract more critters into the road? Seems like the city really just doesn’t care about solving this problem. You offered ZERO solutions and instead blamed a citizen for bringing this to your attention. So cool! Guess we’ll all just live in filth and skunk smell forever. Thanks, guys.

The Flats are completely overrun with skunks these days. I've seen as many as 4 skunks in my yard. Every plant I put in my back yard is dug up and they re-dig the same spots night after night going on for months. That being said, I don't think the BOH's is responsible for this issue. This city should work with MassWildlife on a plan for this problem. You can contact the MassWildlife Connecticut Valley District office at 341 East Street, Belchertown, MA 01007. (413) 323-7632 Monday–Friday, 7:30 a.m.–4 p.m. Mass.Wildlife@mass.gov

Thanks, VanDog! That’s a very helpful and proactive suggestion. Perhaps not exclusively the board of health’s responsibility, but I stand firm in my belief that the city should at least try to help resolve this issue in some way. Since skunks are animals, I started with animal control.
Seems like a pattern lately of the city laying blame and responsibility on residents. For example, doesn’t feel great to get a notice shaming people for illegal dumping after multiple trash pick-up issues in the last few weeks. What do you expect regular people to do? Not everyone has a garage or other space to store refuse in. And clearly it shouldn’t be stored outside (refer to skunk issue). ¯\_(ツ)_/¯

Any other questions or concerns please call the Board of Health Office at 413-322-5595 and ask to speak to the Animal Control Officer. Thank you.

This has been addressed by Animal Control. Thank you!

Mayor assigned this issue to Board of Health Director