Skunks are fascinating creatures known for their black-and-white coloring and defensive spray. Two species are found in Vancouver: the Striped Skunk and the Western Spotted Skunk.

Species of Skunks in Vancouver:

The Striped Skunk is the most common, with a black body and a white stripe running from head to tail. The Western Spotted Skunk is smaller and features white spots and broken stripes on a black background. 

Breeding Habits:

Skunks mate in early spring, and after a 60-75 day gestation, females give birth to 4-7 kits. Kits are born blind and hairless, relying entirely on their mother for care and nourishment. 

Feeding Habits:

Skunks are omnivores with a varied diet of insects, small mammals, birds, eggs, fruits, and plants. Opportunistic feeders, adapt well to urban areas by scavenging for food.

Morphology:

Skunks have stocky bodies, short legs, and long claws suited for digging. Their scent glands produce a foul-smelling spray as a defence against predators, a feature they’re best known for. 

Lifestyle:

Primarily nocturnal and solitary, skunks are excellent diggers, creating dens in burrows or under structures like decks. They are generally docile, spraying only when threatened. 

Did You Know Facts:

• Skunks can spray their defensive scent up to 10 feet with accuracy.
• The spray contains sulfur-based chemicals that can irritate and temporarily blind predators.
• Despite their smell, skunks play a crucial role in controlling insect and rodent populations