Texas is home to a number of wildlife critters and many have adapted to living alongside humans and in urban environments. One common wildlife intruder is the Striped Skunk. Striped skunks are known to invade yards and come right up to the home and even are found in attics. Skunks are well known for their pungent odors which they use for defense. They are also known to be aggressive when they feel threatened. A Five Star Termite & Pest Control will share the traits of the striped skunk and provide some control tips to help keep skunks off your yard.
Striped Skunk Identification
The striped skunk has two stripes. The stripes join at the head and split as the white travels down their back and sometimes, all the way down to their tails. Skunks have bushy tails and a robust body. Skunks have two large scent glands near the base of their tails, which contain the skunk’s notorious odor. Skunks are generally not seen during the day as they are nocturnal and only leave their den at night. They will dedicate their life mostly to foraging and eating.
Are Skunks Active in the Winter Time?
By fall, skunks will become extremely fat, feeding on vegetation, insects, birds, lizards and other small mammals. However, skunks will remain active during the winter and often more so than the summer. Texas summer heat makes skunk retreat to their dens. Skunks are also social creatures. It is common for several skunks to inhabit a single den. Their breeding season begins in February and can last until March. A single female can have up to two litters each year, consisting of four to five offspring.
Where Do Skunks Live in the Winter?
Their den can vary from burrows, to underneath rocks and also within dense vegetation. Skunks have been known to burrow underneath decks, or the foundation of home and other structures. Skunks have also been found nesting under sheds and porches. They are also known for knocking over trash cans, ripping garbage bags open and making a major mess. It is natural to want to prevent skunks from invading your yard and home.
How Do You Keep Skunks Away from Your Home & Yard
When taking steps to preventing and controlling skunks, one of the first steps is to avoid providing them food and water. Skunks will follow their nose and will eat pet food, bird seeds and of course, rummage through trash. Avoid leaving bird feeders and pet food outside. Keep trash bags tied and placed inside a trash contain with a lid. Whenever possible, also avoid leaving water dishes or bird baths as skunks will seek out water. Lawn and landscaping should also avoid puddles or leaky irrigation systems. The next step is to prevent skunks from living underneath structures such as porches and sheds. Installing a barrier around the structures on the property can prevent skunks from digging and burrowing. As skunks tend to wander, you can also use repellents. One of the most effective repellent is motion-senor sprayers. However, when skunks are present, the best method of control is by trapping and removing them.
Wildlife Control, Removal & More in Canyon Lake, Spring Branch, Bulverde, Timberwood Park, Leon Valley, Alamo Heights, New Braunfels, Selma, Live Oak, Converse, Universal City, Cibolo, Seguin, New Berlin, St Hedwig, Adkins, La Vernia, Elmendorf, Losoya, Von Ormy, Macdona & San Antonio, Texas
Professional pest control and wildlife trapping and removal services is one of the most effective ways to get rid of skunks that have decided to remain close to your home. If you find you have skunks invading your yard or home, contact A Five Star Termite & Pest Control today.
