These shy, secretive animals discharge their scent only when disturbed or harassed. Skunks are nocturnal, and while they do not hibernate, they may be inactive for extended periods during winter. They feed on fruits, berries and insects, often digging cone-shaped holes in lawns to remove grubs. Insect-infested turf may be overturned in large patches. Small mammals, ground-nesting birds and eggs are eaten on occasion.
Skunks live in underground dens, usually renovated woodchuck burrows, or in rocky crevasses.
In rural and suburban areas skunks may take refuge beneath buildings and in the crawl space under porches. In late winter, skunks seek mates and breed. After about 2 months gestation, the young are born in the dens, and by summer they join the mother in foraging for food. Control Skunks are furbearers, and this classification provides them with legal protection except during the hunting and trapping season. They should not be destroyed needlessly, since killing a skunk will add to the odor problems near people.