VINTON, Va. (WDBJ) - The Vinton Police Department is giving a heads up to residents, letting them know they’re likely going to see an increase in skunks in the area during the fall.

“Skunks in Virginia become more active in the fall as they prepare for winter,” Vinton PD said.

During the fall, skunk sightings will be more prevalent because they’re foraging for food and trying to find a safe spot to prepare for the cold winter months, according to Vinton PD.

Skunks spend a lot of time eating and getting fat in the summer and fall to build up fat reserves in preparation for winter. They don’t truly hibernate, but enter a state of torpor (deep sleep) for long periods when it’s cold.

As the temperature drops, skunks look for a better home to stay warm. They’ll seek out abandoned burrow

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