Skunks

Appearance 

• Thick black fur with white stripe down the back.
• Bushy tail, short legs and visible claws.
• Approximately the size of a cat.
• Paw prints are very similar to a cat's.

Behaviour and Habitat

• Generally active from dusk to dawn; however, can be seen during the day especially in the fall and winter.
• Often den under sheds, decks and porches.
• Release an oil that produces a pungent odour. Before spraying, they give warnings such as stamping their feet, vocalizing and raising their tail.
• Can carry and transmit rabies.

Diet

• Skunks are omnivores that eat a variety of food including pet food, insects, eggs, small rodents, plants and bird seed.

Co-existing with Skunks

As of January 2024, the City of Saskatoon has discontinued skink trapping services.

Skunks are well adapted to urban areas and are commonly found in Saskatoon. To prevent skunks from entering your property, remove sources of food and shelter and consider these tips:

• Ensure garbage, compost, bird seed and pet food are contained and inaccessible to skunks.
• Prevent access underneath sheds and other structures by putting L-shaped barriers below grade.
• Remove wood and other construction waste that can shelter skunks or harbor insects that skunks feed on promptly.
• Ensure that gates and fences remain in good repair to prevent easy access by skunks to your property.