Will skunks dig out a bee nest from the ground to eat bees?

While skunks are known for their love of insects, and bees are insects, they likely won't actively dig out bee nests. Here's why:

* Defense: Bee nests are fiercely defended. Skunks are smart animals, and they know that a bee sting is painful.

* Risk vs. Reward: While bees are a good food source, the risk of multiple stings for a relatively small amount of food is probably not worth it for a skunk.

* Other food sources: Skunks have a diverse diet that includes insects, small animals, fruits, and garbage. They can find easier and safer ways to get their food.

However, there are a few exceptions:

* Opportunistic behavior: If a bee nest is already disturbed or exposed, a skunk might take advantage of the situation and eat some bees.

* Individual variation: Some skunks might be bolder or more desperate for food and might attempt to dig out a nest.

So, while skunks might occasionally eat bees from a disturbed nest, they are unlikely to actively dig them out due to the high risk of being stung.