The Skunk

These unmistakable black and white animals are found in most urban environments in Canada. Of the four species in North America, the striped skunk and the spotted skunk are found in Canada. The most common species, the striped skunk, is about the size of a cat with white stripes down its back meeting on the head. The spotted skunk is about half the size of the striped skunk and has white spots instead of stripes. Skunks have small heads and eyes, pointed snouts and short legs that make their movements slow and awkward.

Skunks are burrowing animals that choose to make their dens under porches, decks, sheds, in wood or rock piles and are capable of digging a den a foot underground. They are roam at night and feed on plants, insects, small mammals, bird eggs and fallen fruits. They do not hibernate and several may den together over the winter.

Skunks are rarely aggressive unless cornered or defending their young. If approached or threatened and unable flee, a skunk will usually fluff its fur, lift its tail, stamp the ground with its front feet, and growl. If these actions are not effective in discouraging the intruder, it will lift its tail up over its head and spray. The chemical that skunks spray is a sulphur compound that is ejected from two small openings near the skunk's rear end. The glands that produce the chemical hold enough for five or six full-powered sprays that can be accurate up to 4 ½ metres. Skunks seldom spray without warning or cause.

Skunks have adapted to urban habitats and have become proficient city dwellers. This often brings them into conflict with homeowners as the animals seek food and shelter. During the fall, skunk families will disband. They may be more likely to spray at this time of year as they are defending their den site. They may damage lawns as they dig for grubs until the ground freezes. Skunks do not hibernate in the winter but they may stay in their dens for several weeks during harsh weather.

If you have a skunk problem, remember that wild animals should be treated with respect and understanding. Never corner or attempt to pick up any wild animal. They may bite when they feel threatened. If you have a skunk problem and would like information on how to humanely deal with it, please contact the Kindness Club. We also have information on dealing with raccoons, squirrels, mice and rats, and pigeons.

Information provided by the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies Living with Urban Wildlife Fact sheet.

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