Biology and Habits Skunks are nocturnal and, while they do not hibernate, they may be inactive for extended periods during winter. Skunks live in rocky crevasses or in underground dens that may be renovated woodchuck or badger burrows. In urban and suburban areas, skunks take refuge beneath buildings and in crawl spaces under porches and houses. Skunks mate in February. Their eyes open in 17 to 21 days, and they are weaned at about 2 months.
Young skunks stay with the female until autumn.
Then family ties begin to break. During May and June, young skunks may be left in the den unattended. Avoid sealing buildings or foundations at this time to avoid starving them. In Kansas, skunks are classified as furbearers, providing them with legal protection except during the hunting and trapping season or when causing damage. Eastern spotted skunks are a threatened species in Kansas and should not be destroyed.