Do Skunks Climb?

Are Skunks Good At Climbing?

Despite its curious nature, the striped skunk isn’t very good at climbing. Therefore, unlike squirrels and raccoons, they cannot easily infiltrate attics and chimneys. Instead, their stocky bodies are built for digging and catching bugs with tails that are ill equipped for balancing and climbing. Short, strong legs and tough claws help striped skunks scrape though dirt in search of food like grubs, earthworms, and insects. These burrowing animals inhabit clearings, pastures, fields, and other areas where the ability to climb isn’t particularly useful.

Spotted skunks, on the other hand, are smaller, lighter, and more agile than their striped cousins. Their claws have adapted to provide enhanced climbing abilities, which make them more likely to den in attics and chimneys. Spotted skunks climb up trees to eat honey from beehives and scurry up straw bales in search of rodents. Homeowners often despise their presence, as these climbing skunks can get into garbage cans just as easily as raccoons or squirrels.

Skunk Nuisance Behaviours

Striped skunks have adapted to the presence of humans and build dens under porches, sheds, and wood piles. They love to harass chickens and consider eggs a delicacy. Their inability to climb is offset by the ability to dig up to a foot underground, which is used to burrow under barricades and penetrate fences. This can be a major problem for farmers and homeowners, as the bites of infected skunks may transmit rabies to both livestock and humans. Call Orkin Canada for professional assistance in dealing with problematic skunks climbing or burrowing around your yard or home.