Description
Skunks are well-known for their bad, pungent spray. People from around the world where skunks are found know to steer clear of the animals for risk of their specialized defense mechanism! Two of the most prominent North American species are the spotted and the striped skunk, while others, like the hog-nosed skunk, are less common.
Appearance
- Distinct black and white markings
- Long claws used for digging
- Striped skunks display two outward-bowing, thick stripes along their backs, which join together near their tails
- White patches on their heads
- Spotted skunks have more varied and eccentric-looking stripes accompanied by a few actual spots
- Striped skunks weigh between 4 and 10 pounds and measure approximately 25 inches lengthwise
- Spotted skunks are smaller, as they weigh no more than 3 pounds and grow between 15 and 20 inches long.
Habitat
Skunks are mostly nocturnal and prefer to live in open areas. These animals are capable of surviving in many different climates. During winter seasons, skunks rely on their fat stores for continued nourishment and remain in their dens for several consecutive days to weeks.
Problems
Entry
Are skunks known to enter homes or yards?
Human activity provides nourishment for skunks, compelling them to live under buildings, decks, and patios. The omnivorous mammals eat just about anything, including: small rodents, garden vegetables and berries, grubs and other insects, and venture into trash bins for leftover food. They may also break into chicken coops to steal eggs or hatchlings!
Damage
Do skunks harm people or property?
Skunk secretions are sprayed from the anal glands and can cause horrible odors and temporary blindness. Skunk secretions can hit predators up to 10 feet away! Although skunks are mostly detested for this odor, they also can damage landscapes, plants, and structures when they dig for food. Skunks are one of the most common carriers of rabies and are also known transmitters of canine distemper, hepatitis, tularemia, and Q-fever!
Control
Control and Safety
While control methods, like putting up fences, help keep skunks away, more effort is often needed to seriously reduce the possibility of infestation. Ensuring skunks cannot get under building foundations by sealing openings with mesh wire is a great first step. Individuals can also attempt to limit food and water accessibility, install mesh wire, secure trash bins, limit rodent populations, and block entry to pet and livestock feeds. Keeping landscapes free of debris, such as overgrown shrubs and firewood piles, also deters skunk presence.
Trapping and Removal
Landowners risk the possibility of being sprayed when they approach skunks. Mishandling can also lead to bites, which require immediate professional medical attention. Instead of attempting removal yourself, property owners should call Critter Control to assist with skunk problems. We employ only expert-level pest professionals to ensure jobs are done right and in the safest way possible!
We can help you get rid of skunk problems! Call our St. Joseph office today: 816.654.6922
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