Curious About Connecticut’s Skunks And Their Surprising Habits

On the way into work this morning I almost ran over a family of skunks in Bantam along 202, they were wandering along the side of the road and thankfully I missed them. Not 5 minutes later I had to swerve to avoid another skunk near the 202 Tavern. Is this the time of year that the skunks of Connecticut decide to see the world? Here's what I've discovered.

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According to ct.gov, Eastern Striped Skunk is native to most of Connecticut, but less common in the mountainous portion of Litchfield County. Skunks can weigh between 6 to 14 pounds, and average 21 to 26 inches in length. You may see them anywhere in Connecticut, but they prefer open fields with low, brushy vegetation. They adapt very well to urban environments, so you may just as easily find one under your building or near your garbage cans.

Skunks Can Be a Nuisance to Homeowners in Connecticut

Skunks are omnivores, their diet consists of insects, worms, small mammals, garbage, carrion, nuts, fruits, and snails. They will dig up your lawn and garden in search of something to eat and leave 3–4-inch cone-shaped holes in their wake. Skunks love digging through your unsecured garbage bins, and they will sometimes get trapped under your porch or in your windowsill.

Skunks are primarily nocturnal, but you may see them wandering about in the daytime. They're very accurate with their scent glands, and can spray you or your pet from 10+ feet away. Typically mild-mannered, the warning sign that you should look before is when they stomp their front feet and raise their tail. If you do get sprayed, the most common remedy for the stench is tomato juice or vinegar.