Skunks are commonly found throughout Virginia, inhabiting a variety of ecosystems. While they are typically nocturnal and solitary creatures, rarely crossing paths with people, that changes during this time of year!
From January through mid-March, skunks in the Eastern United States are focused on finding mates. To do so, they travel beyond their usual territories, increasing their movement across different habitats. Male skunks will mate with multiple females and may cover several miles each night in search of a partner. As a result, skunks are more active, crossing roads, exploring unfamiliar areas, and occasionally coming into closer contact with people. Here’s what you can do to stay aware and to help skunks stay safe during this period of heightened activity:
- Watch for skunks on the road. These animals are most active at night and twilight hours. Because skunks are omnivores, they’re often drawn to food scraps left along roadsides—unfortunately, this puts them at greater risk of vehicle collisions. Reducing litter can help keep wildlife safer, so always remember, no litter is safe litter!
- Check your property for potential den sites. Baby skunks, known as kits, are typically born in May or June after a 60- to 75-day gestation period. Mother skunks seek out safe, sheltered spaces to raise their young, often choosing burrows beneath porches, crawlspaces, or other structures. Den openings are usually four to six inches wide and may have a faint skunk odor. Now is a great time to inspect your property and take steps to humanely discourage skunks from settling in. If a skunk has already moved in, it’s important to determine whether it’s a mother with young before attempting any deterrents. For guidance, visit the Center’s Skunks as Neighbors page.
- Recognize the warning signs of defensive behavior. While skunks have poor eyesight, they can still detect approaching threats. If a skunk feels cornered or threatened, it will give clear warning signals before resorting to spraying. Look for foot-stomping, tail-raising, a quick turn to position its backend toward the threat, and hissing. If the warning is ignored, a skunk can spray multiple times, reaching up to 15 feet!
- Use extreme caution when handling skunks. In Virginia, skunks are considered a high-risk species for rabies and roundworm. If you encounter a sick or injured skunk, avoid direct contact and refer to the Center’s Sick and Injured Wildlife page for safe handling practices.
By keeping these tips in mind and sharing them with others, we can help protect skunks and other wildlife. Wishing you a safe and wildlife-friendly Valentine’s Day!