Living with Skunks in DuPage County

Scientific Name:Mephitis mephitis

The striped skunk is one of our more interesting mammals, with a unique striped black and white coat, a bouncing walk and an air of confidence.

The confidence is the result of a remarkable defense system: glands beneath the skunk's tail produce an oily, sulfurous substance that which the skunk can spray with dismaying accuracy, temporarily disabling the senses of a potential attacker and allowing the skunk to escape. The lingering odor and distinctive appearance of the skunk are memorable ("Sorry sir, I won't bother you ever again.") Skunks are burrowing members of the weasel family, with a diet that includes insects, other small animals, fruits and carrion. Their antics can be amusing to watch – at a safe distance.

Unfortunately for the skunk, its relative immunity from predators means that its population is controlled to a large extent by disease. Of particular concern to us is that the skunk is the most common wild carrier of rabies. Rabid skunks are seldom found in DuPage County. Nevertheless, the seriousness of this disease has led the Illinois Department of Natural Resources to require that rehabilitators, such as the District's Willowbrook Wildlife Center, euthanize all skunks they admit.

Dealing with Skunk Problems

• To discourage a skunk from burrowing under a stoop, wait until after dark, fill the hole, leave a small radio playing on the stoop and a flashlight directed at the hole. Except for the months of May and June, when young may be present, an alternative approach is to stuff ammonia-soaked rags into the hold before filling it. Repeat this routine for at least three or four days.
• If you discover orphaned skunks, do not attempt to raise them. It is illegal to possess a skunk in Illinois and it can be dangerous for you and your family.
• If you need to remove the spray from a pet or building surface, use vinegar.