Subscribe now

Letter: Kicking up a stink

Published 2 February 2011

From Jeff Penver

As an owner of four pet skunks, three of which are “fully armed”, I must debunk your claims that skunk spray almost always causes vomiting (25 December 2010, p 63).

The closest description of the smell I can provide would be that it is similar to burning rubber. I have found that a quick spray of air freshener allows me to keep my last meal firmly down.

Spalding, Lincolnshire, UK

Issue no. 2798 published 5 February 2011

Sign up to our weekly newsletter

Receive a weekly dose of discovery in your inbox. We'll also keep you up to date with New Scientist events and special offers.

Sign up
Piano Exit Overlay Banner Mobile Piano Exit Overlay Banner Desktop