The Life Cycle of Kentucky’s Striped Skunk

The skunk (Mephitis mephitis) begins its mating season around February and continues through March. Males begin their search for a mate sometime in late January and will travel miles in that quest. This is when you are more likely to notice their scent and see increased skunk activity, including potential visits to your home and dead carcasses on Kentucky roadways.

The female will give birth to litters of 4-6 kits after a 2-month gestation period, usually around May to June. They are born completely hairless, blind, and deaf, relying on the mother for food and protection. Around 2 weeks of age, skunks begin to grow fur, and by 3 weeks, they develop sight and hearing, marking the beginning of the juvenile stage.

During the juvenile stage, young skunks develop the ability to spray, which takes about 4 weeks from birth. After another 4 weeks, the skunks will be fully weaned and able to finally explore their surroundings under their mother’s supervision. They will use this opportunity to learn how to forage for food and recognize threats, both essential for their survival.

At around one year old, skunks are fully developed adults and can survive on their own. Skunks this age will have reached sexual maturity and can finally reproduce, continuing the life cycle. In total, a skunk will live 3-7 years in the wild, though sometimes more in captivity.

If you see skunks around your home or smell their scent regularly, you may need a property evaluation to ensure they aren’t taking up residence there. Give our office a call and schedule your assessment today!