Skunks carry a noteworthy reputation because of their well-storied defense mechanism. Fortunately, they have distinct markings and are easy to spot, making recognition and avoidance easier. Interestingly, Skunks are members of the weasel family. There are several species in the United States, but there are only two of real significance: the striped skunk (Mephitus mephitis) and the spotted skunk (Spilogale putorius). These are considered to be the most common and troublesome of the relatives.

Skunks can be both a blessing and a curse. They are mostly carnivorous and feed on rodents considered harmful to humans like moles, shrews, ground squirrels, rats, mice, and other small mammals. Also, they help keep insect populations low through their affinity for crickets, beetles, grasshoppers, and other types of insect larvae. While helping control unwanted populations, skunks are known to do harm to property and domestic animal populations, too. If available, skunks will feed on poultry and their eggs. Also, they eat garden vegetables, fruit, damage lawns when foraging for insects, and damage beehives (eating adult and larval bees in the process). Skunks like digging under foundations to take refuge beneath homes and in other, less trafficked buildings. They also will burrow under low decks. Skunks carry serious health concerns. The striped skunk is second only to the raccoon in number of recorded rabies cases within the United States.

The skunk odor is a repellent of predators.  They have two internal glands at the base of the tail which can produce a thick, volatile, oily liquid containing sulfur compounds. Before discharging, the skunks will do their own version of a war dance to scare away the potential threat. Once the tail is raised, be on alert. The fluid can be discharged up to 20 feet with a high accuracy up to 10 feet. The skunk can fire multiple times when needed. If any gets into the eyes of humans or pets, pain and temporary blindness can occur.

Skunks are mostly active in warmer months. They don’t actually hibernate, but will remain inactive in their dens for days to weeks during extreme cold. They are nocturnal.  Skunks typically mate in late winter, and the young are born from mid-spring to mid-summer. The spotted skunk may have two litters during the year. The young don’t have long to learn from their parents. They are out of the den by fall and on their own.

The easiest way to control or prevent skunks from taking hold in an area is exclusion. Ensure there are no holes next to structures where they may be able to create a den. These can be filled with dirt, concrete, or covered with a sturdy wire mesh. If skunks have already taken residence, tracking patches can help provide intelligence on where and how many. Be sure to make sure that all are out before excluding entry. Another way to discourage habitation is the removal of cover which the skunks may find appealing: brush, woodpiles, lush vegetation, old vehicles, etc. Live traps are an effective means of relocation. Just be careful in this process as you may be sprayed if the proper precautions aren’t taken. Check local regulations as to trapping and relocating.