Like most animals, skunks are able to live anywhere, as long as there is food, water, and shelter. They’re known to be very adaptable to their environment and survive and thrive in most places, may it be rural or urban. Different skunk species also have different preferences on where to live, but some of the most frequent places that they like are woodlands, forests, scrublands, and even agricultural and urban areas.
To build their shelter, skunks will dig dens using their very strong front claws, and the entrances of these dens will usually be a medium-sized hole in the ground. They might also opt for pre-made dens that are abandoned by other animals, and these can be hollow logs, brush piles, and woodpiles. Sometimes, they can also be found living very close to humans because of easy access to food and water, so it wouldn’t be much of a surprise to see them under porches, in barns, garages, and sheds, or any dark and cozy places.
Is There Strength in Numbers?
One interesting thing about skunks is their habit of keeping company. Skunks usually live a solitary life and forage alone. They like being alone because of their defense mechanism of spraying. Unlike other animals that move about in packs, skunks generally don’t need the strength in numbers as it only takes one spray, unlike other animals who will bite, charge, and claw their opponents together. This is a bit of good news, especially if you’re worried about them living under your porch or in your garage.
But… One should keep in mind that there are a few exceptions to this rule when it comes to skunks.
Sweater Weather
During the cold season, skunks prefer to live in groups to keep themselves warm. They will also usually find special habitats that will keep them warmer, and it’s not surprising to see groups of skunks sharing their dens with other animals. During this season, skunks tend to hibernate due to the harshness of the weather. However, keep in mind that they don’t fully hibernate unlike other animals, as they still come out every now and then to search for food.
Mating Season
Skunks only mate once per year, and this breeding season usually occurs from February to March. Since skunks are polygamous, meaning they mate with more than one partner, it is normal to see a group of skunks together in a den. Skunks usually stay close to their dens, and they rarely go farther than a mile from it. However, this changes during the breeding season and male skunks usually travel farther than a mile in search of female skunks to mate with.
What Do I Do If I See One?
Although normally, you don’t need to worry about more than two skunks living together, there are times when you may run into a skunk with a lot of kits (skunk babies). If you are in this situation or think that you are, it is best to call wildlife removal experts to remove the family. Try not to attempt to do it yourself, as in many places, it is illegal to trap a skunk on your own. Check your local laws before attempting to remove them. If you are in the clear, professionals suggest that you should leave the family alone for at least a few months or until the kits are able to move on their own, before you even attempt to remove them.
Go back to the Tomball wildlife removal home page.