Pierre Dealing with Influx of Skunks This Summer

PIERRE, S.D. (AP) - South Dakota's capital city is dealing with a large number of skunks this summer.

Pierre Animal Control Officer Chris Gross tells the Capital Journal that recent hot weather has the animals coming from outside the city in search of food and water. Pierre topped out at 110 degrees one day late last month.

Gross says than 60 skunks have been caught since June. He says he has all of his traps out and calls keep coming, leading to a waiting list.

Skunks not only have a foul odor but also a high likelihood of disease. State Epidemiologist Lon Kightlinger says more than 60 percent of skunks that are tested in South Dakota are rabid.