Skunks are among the most widely distributed mammals in North America.  The striped skunk is found throughout the United States and parts of Canada.  Skunks are readily recognized by their black and white pelage pattern and their unique, odorous musk which they use for defense against predators.  Skunks are omnivores and feed on a wide variety of plant and animal material.  Their diet includes berries, fruits, vegetables, insects, small rodents, reptiles, eggs and young birds.
The striped skunk has short, stocky legs and is about the size of a house cat.  They have two broad white stripes running the length of their jet black body from the nape of the neck to the base of the tail.  A single white stripe separates the eyes and the long bushy tail is tipped in white.  Adult striped skunks can weigh up to 10 pounds.

Skunks mate in late February to early March.  Average gestation period is 62 to 66 days.  Skunk kits are born from early May to early June.  Litter sizes can range from 2 to 10.
Kits are born blind and thinly furred.  Their eyes open in 17 to 21 days, and by 2 to 4 weeks of age, the kits are available to expel musk from their glands.  They begin to hunt with their mother at about 2 months of age.  Until then, they are left alone in the den when the mother goes out hunting.  The kits remain with their mother until autumn.

Skunks are solitary animals.  They come together only during breeding season and during winter when several may be found denning together.  Although skunks do not hibernate, they may become inactive for extended periods during the winter.

Skunks are highly adaptable.  They frequently live in close association with humans.  Although skunks are commonly considered a nuisance, their tendency to consume insects and rodent harmful to agriculture crops may benefit farmers.  Unfortunately, these same activities can also create additional damage situations.
Skunks eat the eggs and young of ground nesting birds.  Skunks may also damage vegetable gardens, kill and eat domestic poultry and their eggs.  Occasionally they may damage beehives whiles trying to feed on the bees.
Skunks disrupt unsecured garbage cans and consume pet food that is left outdoors.  They may also damage lawns, athletic fields, and golf courses by digging up turf as they search for food.
Skunk denning activities can also result in damage.  Dens located under buildings can be a nuisance to building occupants should the skunk release its musk.
Skunks can carry rabies. When a skunk becomes infected with the virus, it may not be apparent for many days. Any skunk showing abnormal behavior, such as daytime activity, may be rabid and should be treated with caution. In addition, avoid overly aggressive skunks that approach without hesitation.  Skunks can also be infected with tularemia, distemper, Aleutians disease and several parasites including fleas, lice, mites, ticks, roundworms, tapeworms, and flatworms.