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Did you know that outside of mating season, skunks spend the majority of their life alone? Find out more interesting facts about the lonely skunk here.

Facts about Skunks: What You Need to Know | Terminix Skip to main contentEnable accessibility for visually impairedOpen the accessibility menu Zip : 75201 - Branch : Dallas Change Please enter a valid zipcode Need help?  (877) 325 - 0524 Home Business Termite Control Pest Control Treat a Problem Ant Control Bed Bug Control Centipede & Millipede Control Cockroach Control Cricket Control Mosquito Control Moth Control Rodent Control Scorpion Control Silverfish Control Spider Control Termite Treatment Tick Control Wildlife Control Attic Insulation Crawl Space Services Gutter Protection Pest Research Ants Bed Bugs Cockroaches Mice Mosquitoes Rats Termites Ticks See all Find My Branch Raccoons Opossums and Wildlife Facts about Skunks: What You Need to Know Home Skunks Skunks Facts Tell your neighbors. Email Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter YouTube Pests Raccoons Opossums and Wildlife There are many facts about skunks and almost as many myths. Ten species of skunks have been identified, all of which live in North and Central America. The most common are the striped skunk, spotted skunk, hooded skunk and the hog-nosed skunk. Of these, the most recognizable is the striped skunk, which can be found in all of North America, from the Southern part of Canada to the Northern portion of Mexico. Skunks average in size from 20 to 30 inches in length and weigh from 6 to 10 pounds. If you want more information about skunks, facts that may interest you are listed below. Hide and skunk Skunks can thrive in a variety of different environments. A skunk’s primary nesting site is within the abandoned burrows of other animals. They will also nest in hollow trees, stumps and, unfortunately, sometimes under porches and decks. If needed, they will burrow their own den underground and use tree branches, leaves and brush for concealment. The smell of solitude Skunks feed on a variety of sources such as insects, grubs, berries, mushrooms, eggs, frogs and even small rodents. They are most active at night, but will sometimes venture out in the daylight hours in search of food or to find a mate. Skunks do not hibernate, although they do stay within their dens during colder temperatures. Other than during mating season, they spend most of their time alone. Stay away from the spray These animals are typically not aggressive, but they will spray a very foul odor from their anal glands when they feel threatened. They give a warning before spraying by raising their tail, hissing and stomping their rear feet. If you happen upon one of these animals and are lucky enough to see the warning, make certain you get as far away from them as quickly as you can. A skunk can spray their victim as far as 10 feet away. Damage beyond the stink A little known fact about skunks is that they can cause serious damage to your home or your yard. They have powerful claws for digging and can make numerous, unsightly holes in your lawn while searching for food. Burrowing underneath porches and decks to form their den can create instability in the foundation. Skunks are also a health concern as they are known carriers of rabies. Additional skunk facts Skunks will attack beehives, but not for the honey – they eat the bees. A male skunk is called a buck, the female a doe and the baby a kit. Skunks have a very keen sense of smell and hearing, but poor eyesight. Skunks can run up to 10 miles per hour. The lifespan of a skunk in the wild is about three years, but they can survive 10 years in captivity. Don’t get skunked trying to eradicate these animals on your own. Consult with a pest management professional for trapping and control assistance. Not sure what your home needs? Let us help. Contact us Or browse more pests Browse pests Related Articles Raccoons Opossums and Wildlife | How to Deter Squirrels in Residential Settings Home Garden | Tips for Camping in the Summer: How to Help Keep Bugs Away Education | Are Opossums Dangerous? Education | Are Opossums Blind? Sign up for a free home protection guide! Enter your email** Submit Thank you for signing up. × What is your address? Your customized price is based on location. 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