What’s with all the Skunks?

I have noticed a lot of skunks killed on the side of the road already this year and the other night I saw one across the yard. I have also smelled the lovely aroma of skunk several times lately. Are they not out earlier than usual and are they greater in numbers?

Skunks generally come out of a semi slumber when the days get warm, looking to reproduce and feed. According to one veterinarian, they have poor eyesight and often end up on the wrong side of the car tire because they are searching for food. The early warm spell that hit the area over the last few weeks may have spurred the skunk population out a little early. If it turns cold again, they may retire for a while longer. If the weather stays warm then the skunks are most likely out and about for the season, though, as the days grow longer and warmer the numbers found on the side of the road should decrease.