Skunks Removal Northwest Illinois
Fear you may have a Skunk problem? We at Animal Trackers Wildlife want to make the entire process of wildlife removal easy for you. Below you will find helpful information to help you accurately identify the species of wildlife you may be experiencing, as well as health or property risks commonly attributed to Skunks.
Skunks Identification & Physical Characteristics
Skunks are well-known and recognized, nocturnal residents of Illinois. The striped skunk is easily identified by its prominent, lateral white stripes that run down its back. Aside from the white stripes, its fur is jet black. The body size of a skunk is about the size of an ordinary house cat.
Skunks are typically 13 to 38 inches in size and can weigh between 7 and 14 pounds. Their average lifespan in the wild is around
3 years. Skunks are most widely known for their defense mechanism – smell. The skunk has quite the reputation due to its natural predator deterrent. To protect themselves from predators and other dangers they will emit a hard to remove and horrible-smelling spray. The skunk will spray an oily liquid produced by glands located under its large tail. Did you know, that the spray a skunk can deliver can travel up to ten feet?
Skunk Habitats and Lifestyle
They are relatively adaptable creatures though they prefer to nest in burrows. These burrows or nests can be found in anything from porches, decks, sheds, and other man-made structures.
If you see one skunk – be aware – there are probably more close by. Females will typically give birth to between six and ten young each year.
Damage Skunks Can do to Your Property
Typical damage you can experience when you have skunks on your property can include the following: holes throughout your lawn as they are digging looking for grubs and other insects, Damage to fragile insulation if they get into your attic, chewing on misc items including electrical wiring. Even if you are not experiencing a significant amount of damage now, please keep in mind that skunks are carriers of parasites and disease. You should always consult with Animal Trackers Wildlife if you have skunks living on your property.
Skunk Eating Habits
Skunks are what are known as omnivores, which means that their diet is comprised of both meat and vegetation. Skunks are very opportunistic eaters. They are naturally nocturnal foragers who will eat fruit and vegetation, insects, larvae, worms, small mammals or reptiles, fish, as well as human trash and disregarded food.