Skunks are present and common across Georgia. Their adaptability allows them to thrive in various environments, from rural landscapes to suburban neighborhoods.
Skunk Species in Georgia
Georgia is home to two species of skunks: the Striped Skunk (Mephitis mephitis) and the Eastern Spotted Skunk (Spilogale putorius). The Striped Skunk is considerably more common and widely distributed throughout Georgia, making it the species most frequently encountered by residents.
The Striped Skunk is recognizable by its black fur with a prominent white stripe that typically runs from its head down its back, often splitting into two stripes near the tail. These skunks are similar in size to a domestic house cat, generally measuring between 21 and 28 inches in total length and weighing from 3 to 11 pounds. The Eastern Spotted Skunk, while sharing the black and white coloration, is significantly smaller, weighing 1 to 3 pounds and measuring about 17 to 23 inches long. Instead of broad stripes, the Eastern Spotted Skunk typically has horizontal white stripes on its neck and shoulders, irregular vertical and elongated spots on its sides, and white spots on its head. This species is rarer in Georgia, with its range primarily limited to the northern and eastern parts of the state.
Where Skunks Live in Georgia
Skunks in Georgia are highly adaptable, inhabiting a diverse range of environments. They can be found in woodlands, open fields, agricultural areas, and increasingly, within suburban and urban landscapes. This adaptability allows them to thrive in close proximity to human populations.
Skunks often seek shelter in abandoned burrows, hollowed logs, rock crevices, and brush piles. They also establish dens under structures like decks, sheds, porches, and homes, particularly in crawl spaces and basements. Skunks are primarily nocturnal, meaning they are most active at night, though they can sometimes be seen foraging during daylight hours.
Coexisting with Skunks
Skunks are known for their strong-smelling defensive spray, which they can deploy up to 15 feet when threatened. They typically give warnings before spraying, such as stomping their front feet, raising their tail, or performing a handstand. Maintaining distance and avoiding startling them are the best ways to prevent being sprayed.
To deter skunks from your property, remove potential food sources like unsecured trash cans and outdoor pet food. Skunks are attracted to insects and grubs, so controlling insect populations in your yard can make it less appealing. Sealing entry points under structures like decks, sheds, and porches with wire mesh or concrete can prevent skunks from denning there. Removing brush piles and debris also eliminates potential den sites.
Skunks are significant carriers of rabies, with cases confirmed in Georgia. They can also carry diseases like distemper, leptospirosis, and intestinal roundworms. If a skunk appears sick, disoriented, aggressive, or exhibits abnormal behavior, contact local animal control or wildlife authorities. Ensuring pets are vaccinated against rabies is an important preventative measure.