Skunks are notorious across North America for their powerful defensive spray. These distinctive black and white mammals are native and common throughout Washington State, successfully occupying environments from dense forests to urban centers. Understanding which species live here and how to manage potential encounters is key to peaceful coexistence with these nocturnal foragers.
Skunk Species Found in Washington
Washington State is home to two species of skunk: the larger Striped Skunk and the smaller Western Spotted Skunk. The Striped Skunk (Mephitis mephitis) is the one most often encountered by homeowners. Comparable to a domestic cat in size, it reaches lengths of 22 to 32 inches including the tail and has a jet-black body with two prominent white stripes running down its back.
The Western Spotted Skunk (Spilogale gracilis) is a smaller, more agile animal, generally measuring between 14 to 18 inches in total length. Its coat is black or grayish-black but features broken white stripes and spots, giving it a spotted appearance. When threatened, the Spotted Skunk displays a distinctive warning behavior, often performing a handstand before deploying its spray.
Where Skunks Live and Thrive
Skunks are highly adaptable, allowing them to thrive in virtually all of Washington’s low-elevation environments. The Striped Skunk is widespread, preferring open country like pastures and wooded ravines, but is also at home in urban and suburban landscapes. They are frequently seen near open water sources and are well-known residents of the Puget Sound region, including Seattle.
The Western Spotted Skunk occupies a wide range of habitats, including coastal forests, farmlands, and riparian areas along streams and rivers. This species often prefers brushy, forested habitats and tends to be less tolerant of human activity than the Striped Skunk. Both species utilize makeshift dens for daytime rest, often taking advantage of abandoned burrows, rock piles, or sheltered spots beneath porches and decks.
Dealing with Skunks on Your Property
Preventing skunks from settling on your property primarily involves eliminating attractants, especially food and shelter. Skunks are opportunistic omnivores, so securing all outdoor food sources is paramount. This includes keeping pet food indoors, ensuring garbage cans have tight-fitting lids, and removing fallen fruit. Skunks often dig shallow, cone-shaped holes in lawns, typically 3 to 5 inches deep, while foraging for insects like grubs and earthworms.
Exclusion is the most effective long-term strategy for denying them den sites under structures. An adult skunk can squeeze into a hole as small as four inches in diameter. To prevent them from establishing a home, seal all openings under porches, sheds, and foundations with heavy-gauge wire mesh. Ensure the mesh is buried at least one to two feet deep and bent outward in an “L” shape.
If you encounter a skunk, remain calm and avoid sudden movements. Skunks have poor eyesight and are generally non-aggressive unless cornered. Slowly back away and allow the animal a clear escape path. A skunk will often give a warning, such as foot-stomping or hissing, before spraying. If a pet is sprayed, the standard household remedy for odor removal is a solution of one quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide, a quarter cup of baking soda, and one to two teaspoons of liquid dish soap. This mixture chemically neutralizes the spray’s thiols, which is why tomato juice, which only masks the scent, is ineffective.