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SKUNK NATURAL HISTORY Striped Skunk
Scientific Name: Mephitis mephitis Common
Problems:
Skunks
can be problematic when they dig under foundations or take up
residence under a house or porch. Contacting a humane pest control
company is the most appropriate way to handle this problem as
there are many variables to consider before closing up any holes. Skunks
frequently dig up lawns in search of insect larvae. If this
type of damage is occurring on your lawn at night, you have grubs
under your lawn. Skunks are very effective grub control agents
but if you find their digging disturbing, there are a variety
of treatments available at any garden center to treat lawn
grubs. Skunks have the ability to discharge a very thick, oily and noxious odor when frightened or provoked. Please see the skunk deodorizer recipe above if you or your pet have been sprayed. Odors Away (R) is particularly effective at removing the skunk odor from the air. Skunks, however, are generally very uninclined to spray. They are very placid animals that are also extremely near-sighted. When they do spray, and since they don't see very well, it is often in response to loud noises and sudden movements (like your barking dog). If you encounter a skunk, move slowly away from it and you'll be fine. Description: Skunks are members of the weasel family. Markings may vary by individual but they are always black and white with bushy tails. Breeding: Babies are born in April and May and there may be anywhere from 2 to 16 young in one litter! However, the average litter size is 6 to 8. The babies are born blind and hairless. Habits & Haunts: The striped skunk is a nocturnal animal, which means it does its hunting at night. The den is usually a burrow. They are not true hibernators but become very drowsy in severe weather and may sleep for extended periods. They range throughout North America and an individual skunk's territory may span 30 to 40 acres. The skunk moves slowly and therefore relies upon its scent glands for defense. Their spray can carry as far as 10 feet! The spraying position consists of a lowered head, a body curved into a "U" shape and the tail held high with all hairs bristled. Before spraying, a skunk will stamp its feet - this is a warning! If you encounter a skunk, speak softly and quietly to it (I'm not kidding) and back SLOWLY away. Skunks tend not to see well and react poorly (you know what this means) to loud noises and quick movements. Avoid both. If you or your pet are sprayed, try the following recipe for an instant deodorizer- It works great! Just mix the ingredients together and apply onto the fabric or pet as needed while the solution is actively foaming. Skunk Odor Remover courtesy of the CWRA 1 quart 3% hydrogen peroxide 1/4 cup baking soda 1 teaspoon of any liquid dish or laundry detergent A couple of things....This deodorizer cannot be stored. Discard any unused portion. Also, don't wear any metallic jewelry while using this mixture. It can cause a skin reaction in some people. Finally, black dogs may acquire interesting rust-colored highlights from this remedy. Food: The skunk is omnivorous and eats insects, fruit, corn, amphibians, reptiles, small mammals, eggs and carrion. They help keep rodent populations in check and an estimated 70% of their diets consist of insects considered harmful to humans. So remember, a skunk is your friend! Found An Orphan? Click here Some information about Rabies in Wildlife |
