Skunks, known for their distinct appearance and defensive spray, are adaptable mammals found across North America. They are indeed residents of Washington State, navigating various environments from wildlands to human-populated areas. Understanding their presence and habits can help foster coexistence.
Skunks in Washington State: Species and Distribution
Washington State is home to two primary skunk species: the Striped Skunk (Mephitis mephitis) and the Western Spotted Skunk (Spilogale gracilis).
The Striped Skunk, larger and more commonly encountered, is found across most lowland areas of the state. They thrive in diverse habitats, including open fields, pastures, agricultural lands, and even suburban and urban environments, especially near water sources.
The Western Spotted Skunk is smaller, typically 14 to 18 inches long. This species inhabits a wide array of environments in Washington’s lowlands, such as coastal forests, farmlands, brushy areas, and riparian zones.
While both species share similar habitat types, the Western Spotted Skunk is more frequently observed in and around forests and woodlands, exhibiting less tolerance for human activity compared to the Striped Skunk.
Understanding Skunk Behavior and Habits
Skunks are primarily nocturnal, emerging at dusk to forage for food and returning to their dens before dawn.
During the day, they rest in sheltered locations like burrows, hollow logs, brush piles, or under porches and sheds. While they often use abandoned burrows of other animals, skunks are also capable of digging their own dens. In colder months, they may den together in groups to conserve warmth, though males often den alone.
Skunks are omnivorous, and their diet adapts with the seasons. They eat insects like grasshoppers, beetles, grubs, and bees, along with small rodents, eggs, fruits, and vegetables. In urban settings, they may also scavenge human food scraps from garbage.
When threatened, skunks defend themselves by spraying a potent, sulfur-based liquid from glands near their anus. Before spraying, they typically provide warnings such as foot stomping, hissing, or raising their tail. They can spray accurately up to 15 feet multiple times, though it takes several days for their spray supply to replenish.
Living Alongside Skunks: Prevention and Safety
To minimize conflicts with skunks, residents can take several preventive measures around their property.
Securing trash cans with tight-fitting lids and bringing pet food indoors are effective ways to eliminate common food sources that attract skunks. Regularly maintaining landscaping by trimming shrubs and mowing the lawn can reduce potential hiding spots. Sealing entry points to homes, sheds, decks, and porches with wire mesh or other barriers can prevent skunks from establishing dens in these areas.
If a skunk is encountered, remain calm and move slowly. Their poor vision means they may spray if startled. If agitated, slowly back away, allowing an escape route. If sprayed, flush eyes with water to alleviate irritation.