Being a homeowner means that skunk infestations are something that you would want to avoid completely. We not only identify skunks by their unique markings and foul-smelling nature but also by their incessant digging.
One of the many problems homeowners suffer from skunks is their digging habits. Skunks are natural-born diggers, and they take their digging jobs very seriously. They constantly dig to the point where nothing is safe from their destructive claws. They tear up lawns, gardens, and golf courses. They dig everywhere!
As a homeowner, have you ever wondered why the skunks living around you are always digging? Well, there are a couple of reasons why they constantly dig, some more obvious than others. You may not fully grasp the purpose of their digging, and you may have probably been on the receiving end of it, but you should know that they do dig for a reason.
In today's article, we will be looking at some of the reasons influencing the skunk's digging habit. This will help you contain the situation if ever you find yourself in that spot.
· Shelter
This is the primary reason why skunks dig. Every animal needs a place to stay, and skunks are no different. Naturally, skunks prefer to convert existing burrows dug by other critters to their dens. They also reside in hollow logs, hollow trees, caves, cracks, and crevices in buildings, patios, and ducts. However, in the absence of existing burrows, a skunk will dig out a den to stay and raise its young.
Skunks rarely move further than two miles from their dens. In fact, the only time they wander further from their den is when they are looking for a mate.
· Food
This is another important reason that influences the skunk's digging habits. One key fact about skunks is their poor vision. They rely heavily on their sense of smell to find their way around as well as to find food. The majority of their diet lives underground, so they have to dig to have access to the food. Skunks are omnivores, and their primary food source includes insects like crickets, worms, grasshoppers, beetles, and insect larvae. Skunks also snack on garden vegetables, fruits, berries, and roots. If you find many holes in your garden, with fruits and vegetables missing, then a skunk might be lurking nearby.
Preventive Measures
Before a skunk turns your beautiful grassy yard into a pile of loose soil and holes, you can set up several preventive measures. The first line of action involves keeping the pesky critter out of your property. Burying a wire mesh screen 1 foot into the ground would do the job. The wire mesh prevents burrowing animals like skunks from gaining access to your property.
Go back to the North Oklahoma City wildlife removal home page.