Science & Nature • Mammals

Skunk

Skunks are small to medium-sized mammals in the family Mephitidae, best known for their ability to defend themselves by spraying a foul-smelling liquid from scent glands near the base of the tail.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Skunks are small to medium-sized mammals in the family Mephitidae, best known for their ability to defend themselves by spraying a foul-smelling liquid from scent glands near the base of the tail. They are opportunistic omnivores found in a wide range of habitats across North and South America, where they often feed on insects, small animals, and plant matter.

Classification and appearance

Skunks are mammals in the family Mephitidae. They are commonly recognized by their black-and-white coloration, though patterns vary among species.

Diet and feeding

Skunks are opportunistic omnivores whose diet changes with season and food availability. They commonly eat insects, grubs, worms, fruits, nuts, eggs, small vertebrates, and human food waste.

Defence and behaviour

Skunks use a spray from scent glands near the tail as a chemical defence. They usually warn intruders first and spray only when threatened or cornered.

Reproduction

Skunks typically breed once per year. Gestation lasts about 66 days, and females usually give birth to four to six kits in spring.

Human interactions

Skunks often live near people because suburban and agricultural areas provide food and shelter. They can be beneficial by controlling pests, but they may also create nuisance problems and can carry diseases such as rabies.

Key facts

Skunks are known for their strong-smelling spray, used as a last-resort defense when threatened.
They are opportunistic omnivores, eating insects, fruits, and small animals.
Skunks are generally mild-tempered and avoid conflict unless cornered or disturbed.
Female skunks breed in late winter or early spring and give birth to four to six kits.
Skunks are beneficial in many ecosystems because they consume large numbers of insect and garden pests.

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Canadian context

Skunks are familiar wildlife across much of southern Canada, especially the striped skunk, which often lives near farms, parks, and suburban areas. Canadian readers may encounter skunks in gardens, roadsides, and under buildings, where they are valued for eating insect pests but can also cause nuisance odours.

Frequently asked questions

What do skunks eat?

Skunks are opportunistic omnivores. They eat insects, grubs, worms, fruits, nuts, bird eggs, small mammals, frogs, snakes, and sometimes garbage or pet food.

How do you get rid of skunk smell?

The provided sources note that skunk smell is persistent and can linger for days or weeks, but they do not give a full removal recipe. A common evidence-based remedy is to wash affected skin, clothing, or pets promptly with a peroxide-baking soda-soap mixture, avoiding eyes and using it carefully.

Are skunks dangerous?

Skunks are usually mild-tempered and avoid people, but they can spray when threatened and may carry diseases such as rabies or distemper. They are best treated as wild animals and kept at a distance.

Where do skunks live?

Skunks live in a wide range of habitats, including forests, grasslands, farmland, and suburban areas, wherever food and shelter are available.

Why do skunks spray?

Skunks spray as a defensive warning and last-resort protection when they feel threatened or cornered. The spray comes from scent glands near the base of the tail and can reach about 15 feet.

What is the skunk gestation period?

Skunk gestation lasts about 66 days, or roughly nine weeks.

References

U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service — https://www.fws.gov/story/living-skunks
Supports: Diet, breeding season, litter size, spray behaviour, and defensive use of spray.
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife — https://wdfw.wa.gov/species-habitats/living/species-facts/skunks
Supports: Skunks are mostly nocturnal, mild-tempered, and generally avoid conflict unless disturbed.
Terminix — https://www.terminix.com/skunks/diet/
Supports: Seasonal omnivorous diet, scavenging, and food sources near human habitation.
Skunk Haven — https://www.skunkhaven.net/DietNutrition.htm
Supports: Examples of foods skunks eat, including fruits, vegetables, insects, worms, and meats.
Wikipedia — https://www.wikipedia.org/wiki/Skunk
Supports: Gestation period and general classification as mammals in family Mephitidae.
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks — https://fwp.mt.gov/conservation/living-with-wildlife/skunks
Supports: Gestation timing information stated as seven to 10 weeks, usually nine weeks.
Critter Control — https://www.crittercontrol.com/wildlife/skunks/what-attracts-skunks/
Supports: Common food sources, denning habits, and notes on spray and disease risks.