Skunks are known for their ability to spray a terrible-smelling liquid as a deterrent. There are two main species of skunk, the striped skunk and the spotted skunk. They may be colored brown, cream, black-and-white, or giner. All have some type of warning coloration to show that they are weaponized. Don’t let Pepé le Pew fool you with his charm--skunks stink!

Q: What do skunks eat?

A: Skunks are mostly carnivorous, and sometimes helpful in that they eat smaller rodents like rats, mice, and ground squirrels. They also eat insects and insect larvae, especially beetles, crickets, and grasshoppers. They do sometimes eat vegetables and eggs.

Q: Do skunks carry disease?

A: Yes, skunks are one of the most disease-ridden nuisance animals. Skunks are the second-most common transmitter of rabies to humans, after raccoons. A healthy skunk will rarely ever bit a human, whereas a rabid skunk is much more likely to do so.

Q: Why do skunks smell so bad?

A: Skunks produce as odor as a repellent to larger animals that would prey on them. It’s a thick, oily liquid containing a high level of sulfur. The fluid can be discharged up to 22 feet away, and up to 10 feet high. This liquid is dangerous and painful if it gets in a person’s or a pet’s eye. Be on the lookout if a skunk raises its tail, as that means it’s getting ready to spray.

Q: I never see skunks around, but I smell them. Where are they?

A: Skunks are mostly nocturnal animals, so you won’t see them in the daytime unless they haven’t found food during the nighttime. In colder weather, they may also remain inactive for days on end in their dens.

Q: What damage can skunks cause?

A: Skunks dig holes and dog into holes dug by other animals in search of food. They can ruin a garden, destroy landscaping work, and get into your trash. In addition, they carry rabies and other transmittable diseases.

Q: Why don’t I see many skunks in packs or families?

A: Skunks reproduce up to two times during the spring and summer months, and the young are born fully-formed. Skunk pups will usually be out on their own within a few months from birth.