Many people consider skunks odorous, obnoxious pests that should be avoided at all costs and even eliminated on sight. However, these animals are beneficial because of their grub, insect, and rodent control capabilities. Skunks are nocturnal, preferring to hunt at night. Skunks have few natural enemies. Owl, hawks, coyotes, bobcats, foxes, and dogs may occasionally take one, but most predators are repulsed by the odor of their musk. Skunks are highly susceptible to being struck by vehicles, and road-killed animals are commonly seen along highways throughout Texas. Individuals seldom live more than two years in the wild. When disturbed or startled, skunks utter a peculiar purring sound and often growl when attacked by man. They typically express their anger by rising upon their hind feet, lurching forward, stamping both front feet, and at the same time clicking their teeth. The expelling of musk generally follows this behavior.

Disease Transmission: The skunk is one of four wild animals considered to be primary carriers of the rabies virus in Texas. Human and domestic pet contact should be avoided.

Habits: Skunks are inhabitants of wooded or brushy areas and their associated farmlands. Rocky defiles and outcrops are favored refuge sites, but when these are absent the skunks seek out the burrows of armadillos, foxes, and other animals. Skunks are largely nocturnal and seldom venture forth until late in the day; they retire to their hideouts early in the morning. In late fall they become exceedingly fat. In Texas, they are abroad throughout the year and seemingly more active in winter than in the heat of summer. They are social creatures; often several individuals occupy a well-situated winter den.

Diet: Skunks are not choosy in their food habits. In urban areas they feed on pet food, garbage, fruit that has fallen from trees and garden vegetables. Skunks are primarily insectivorous, feeding on many kinds of pests. In winter and spring, skunks may consume small vertebrates, such as mice, and the eggs of ground-nesting birds.

Reproduction: Breeding begins in February or March. After a gestation period of about 63 days, the three to seven (average, five) young are born. In Texas, most of the young appear in the first half of May. Usually the mother builds a nest of dried grasses and weed stems for the blind, helpless young. The young remain in the nest until their eyes are open and they are strong enough to follow their mother.

Problems: Conflict occurs when the skunks feeding and burrowing activities conflict with man’s interest. In urban areas, skunks damage gardens and lawns and they can be a nuisance because of their odor. Skunks are usually announced more by smell than sight. All skunks have the ability to discharge a nauseating musk from their anal glands. They are capable of discharging their musk several times with accuracy to about 10 feet.