If a skunk is not recognized by sight, it can certainly be discerned by the sulfurous musk it sprays in self defense. All three species are omnivorous, their diets varying from Insects, vegetation and small rodents to bird eggs and garbage. All three species have five toes and claws on their front and hind feet for digging. Skunks generally den in burrows of other animals, rock crevices, brush piles or spaces under buildings, but sometimes dig their own burrows. Their home range averages 0.5 to 1.5 square miles but may increase up to 5 square miles during the breeding season.
Skunks are nocturnal and reclusive.
Use extra caution if you encounter a skunk during the day or one that is extremely aggressive. This abnormal behavior may indicate that the animal is rabid. The occurrence of rabid skunks appears highest from February to May, when they breed and give birth to their young. Striped skunks are found throughout Colorado. Similar in size to house cats, they weigh 4 to 10 pounds.