Skunks are common animals recognized for their distinct black and white markings and a powerful defensive spray. These adaptable creatures often live near human populations, making it helpful to understand their routines and behaviors. This article explores when skunks are most active, how to react during an encounter, and methods for deterring them from your property.
Understanding Skunk Activity Patterns
Skunks are primarily nocturnal, active from dusk until dawn, though they are also active during twilight hours. This nighttime schedule helps them avoid many daytime predators like coyotes, foxes, and birds of prey. The cover of darkness provides safety as they move about and forage for food, which is often more accessible at night.
Skunks are omnivores with a diverse diet that includes insects, grubs, small rodents, eggs, berries, and fallen fruit. They possess an excellent sense of smell and acute hearing, essential for navigating their environment and locating food in low light conditions, compensating for their poor eyesight.
Encountering a Skunk
If you encounter a skunk, remain calm. Skunks are generally not aggressive and prefer to avoid conflict, spraying only as a last resort. Back away slowly without sudden movements or loud noises, allowing the skunk to retreat.
Before spraying, skunks typically provide several warning signs. They may stamp their front feet, hiss, growl, or raise their tail and shake it. Some species, like spotted skunks, might even perform a handstand as a warning. If you observe these behaviors, continue to back away, allowing the skunk to leave peacefully.
Seeing a skunk during the day doesn’t automatically mean it’s rabid. A skunk might be active during daylight hours if it’s a mother foraging for young, was disturbed from its den, or is searching for food unavailable overnight. However, if a skunk appears disoriented, stumbles, circles, shows unusual aggression, or exhibits a lack of fear towards humans, it could indicate illness. In such cases, contact local animal control or a wildlife rehabilitator and avoid direct contact.
Discouraging Skunks from Your Property
Preventing skunks on your property involves removing attractants and securing potential den sites. Secure garbage cans with tight-fitting lids and bring pet food indoors overnight. Pick up fallen fruit from trees and ensure compost bins are enclosed to eliminate food sources.
Skunks seek sheltered areas for their dens, such as under sheds, decks, and foundations. Seal openings under these structures with sturdy materials like chicken wire or wire mesh, burying it several inches underground to prevent digging. Clearing brush and woodpiles also removes potential hiding spots. Eliminating standing water can make your yard less appealing. Motion-activated lights or sprinklers can deter them, as skunks prefer dark, quiet environments.