Striped Skunk

(Mephitis mephitis)

The Striped Skunk (Mephitis mephitis) is the most common skunk found in Florida, and is one of four species of skunks found in North America. These skunks have a distinctive appearance, with a black coat and two white stripes running down their back, which may also extend to their tail. They have a relatively small head, short legs, and a large, bushy tail. Striped skunks can grow up to 30 inches in length and weigh up to 14 pounds.

Skunks are omnivorous and opportunistic feeders, which means they will eat just about anything they can find. Their diet includes insects, small rodents, bird eggs, fruits, and vegetables. They are also known to scavenge for food and will sometimes raid trash cans or gardens. Skunks have a good sense of smell, and will use their long claws to dig for food in the ground.

Skunks are known for their strong odor, which is a defense mechanism used to deter predators. They can spray their musk up to 10 feet away and can accurately aim at their target. The scent can linger for days and can cause temporary blindness if sprayed in the eyes. Skunks will usually only spray if they feel threatened or cornered, so it’s best to give them plenty of space.

Skunks are nocturnal and prefer to live in wooded or grassy areas, but can also be found in suburban and urban areas. They are solitary animals and will typically only come together during the breeding season. Females will give birth to litters of 4-7 young, which they will raise on their own.

Skunks are relatively harmless animals, but they can cause problems for homeowners. They are known to dig burrows under porches, decks, and sheds, which can cause damage to the structure. They can also cause damage to gardens and lawns while searching for food. If you have a skunk on your property, it’s best to contact us at Florida Wildlife Management, to advise you on how we can safely and humanely remove it.