3 Types of Skunks in Colorado (With Pictures and Identification)

Skunks are among the most recognizable mammals in North America, famous for their black-and-white fur and their ability to spray a foul-smelling liquid when threatened. Colorado is home to three skunk species, each with distinct markings, behaviors, and habitats. Whether you are hiking in the foothills, exploring the plains, or living near suburban woodlands, you may encounter these fascinating but often misunderstood animals.

In this detailed guide, we’ll cover the three types of skunks in Colorado: the Striped Skunk, the Eastern Spotted Skunk, and the Western Spotted Skunk. You’ll learn how to identify them, understand their behaviors, and know where and when to spot them. A comparison table is also included to help distinguish these species easily.

Overview of Skunks in Colorado

Skunks belong to the family Mephitidae, and although they are often associated with their defensive spray, they play an important ecological role. These small carnivores help control insect and rodent populations, making them beneficial to both natural and human environments.

In Colorado, skunks can be found in a wide range of habitats, from grasslands and agricultural fields to forests and mountain regions. While sightings may cause concern, skunks are generally non-aggressive and prefer to avoid conflict with humans and pets. Learning about the species that live in Colorado not only helps with identification but also promotes coexistence.

Striped Skunk (Mephitis mephitis)

Characteristics and Identification

The Striped Skunk is the most common skunk species in Colorado. It is easily recognized by its black body with two white stripes running from the head down the back, often merging near the shoulders. Adults typically measure 18 to 32 inches long, including the bushy tail, and weigh between 4 to 12 pounds. Their fur is dense, with the contrast of black and white serving as a warning signal to potential predators.

One of the most distinctive features is the pattern of stripes, which can vary from wide to narrow. Some individuals may even have a small white patch on their head or broken stripes, but the general black-and-white pattern makes identification straightforward.

Habitat and Range in Colorado

Striped skunks are highly adaptable and can be found throughout Colorado, from the Eastern Plains to the foothills of the Rockies. They prefer areas with mixed woodland and open fields, often near water sources. Agricultural lands, suburban neighborhoods, and rural properties are also common habitats.

Because they are opportunistic feeders, striped skunks thrive near human settlements where food sources such as garbage, pet food, or garden crops are accessible.

Behavior and Diet

These skunks are nocturnal and spend the day resting in burrows, hollow logs, or abandoned structures. At night, they forage for food, which includes insects, grubs, small mammals, birds, eggs, fruits, and carrion. They are known for digging small holes in lawns while searching for beetle larvae.

When threatened, striped skunks display warning behaviors such as stomping, hissing, and raising their tail before releasing their infamous spray. This musk can travel up to 10 feet and is strong enough to deter most predators.

Breeding and Life Cycle

Mating occurs in late winter (February to March), with females giving birth to litters of 4–7 kits in May or June. The young stay with their mother through the summer and become independent by fall. Skunks do not hibernate fully but may enter periods of inactivity during the coldest months, often denning in groups to conserve heat.

Eastern Spotted Skunk (Spilogale putorius)

Characteristics and Identification

The Eastern Spotted Skunk is smaller and rarer than the striped skunk. Adults measure about 14 to 22 inches long and weigh between 1 to 3 pounds. Instead of solid stripes, they have broken white markings that appear as spots and irregular streaks across their black fur, giving them a more mottled appearance.

They are also more agile than striped skunks, capable of climbing trees and performing acrobatic defense displays. One unique behavior is their handstand defense posture, where they balance on their front legs and raise their hindquarters to display their markings before spraying.

Habitat and Range in Colorado

In Colorado, the Eastern Spotted Skunk is primarily found in the southeastern and eastern regions, often in wooded habitats, brushy areas, and near farms. They prefer denser vegetation compared to striped skunks and are more secretive, making them harder to spot.

These skunks utilize hollow logs, rock crevices, and abandoned animal burrows as dens. In human-altered environments, they may also shelter under barns or old buildings.

Behavior and Diet

Like other skunks, Eastern Spotted Skunks are nocturnal omnivores, feeding on insects, small rodents, amphibians, reptiles, and fruits. They are excellent mousers and help reduce rodent populations around agricultural lands.

They are more agile climbers than striped skunks, often exploring shrubs and low trees while foraging. Their smaller size and secretive nature mean they are less commonly encountered by people.

Breeding and Life Cycle

Breeding occurs in late winter, with delayed implantation extending pregnancy until spring. Females typically give birth to 4–6 kits in May. The kits remain with the mother until late summer, gradually learning to forage independently.

Because of habitat loss and reduced range, Eastern Spotted Skunks are less common than they once were in Colorado, and sightings are considered special by wildlife enthusiasts.

Western Spotted Skunk (Spilogale gracilis)

Characteristics and Identification

The Western Spotted Skunk is closely related to the Eastern Spotted Skunk but is more commonly found in the western United States, including Colorado’s mountainous and foothill regions. Adults measure 14 to 24 inches long, slightly larger than the eastern species, but still smaller than striped skunks.

Their fur pattern includes white spots and broken stripes, often more complex and irregular than the eastern species. They are also known for performing the same handstand defense display, which makes them one of the most acrobatic mammals in North America.

Habitat and Range in Colorado

This species is found more often in western Colorado, particularly in rocky outcrops, shrublands, and canyon areas. They are adapted to semi-arid environments and are often associated with rugged terrain.

Western Spotted Skunks prefer dens in rocky crevices, woodpiles, or underground burrows. They are less likely than striped skunks to live near dense human populations, although they may occasionally den in rural outbuildings.

Behavior and Diet

Western Spotted Skunks are nocturnal and solitary outside of the breeding season. They feed on insects, small vertebrates, bird eggs, carrion, and seasonal fruits. Like other skunks, they play an important ecological role by controlling pest species.

They are agile climbers and skilled at navigating rocky habitats. Their defensive handstand display, combined with a rapid spray response, makes them particularly effective at deterring predators.

Breeding and Life Cycle

Breeding occurs in fall (September to October), with delayed implantation lasting until the following spring. Litters usually contain 3–6 kits, which are raised by the mother until late summer.

Because of their elusive habits and preference for rugged landscapes, Western Spotted Skunks are less frequently observed than striped skunks but remain an important part of Colorado’s mammalian diversity.

Comparison of Skunk Species in Colorado

Observation Tips in Colorado

• Best Time: Skunks are nocturnal, so early evening and nighttime are the best times to spot them.

• Where to Look: Striped skunks are common near neighborhoods and farmlands, while spotted skunks are more secretive and usually found in woodlands or rocky habitats.

• Caution: Always observe from a distance. Skunks will give plenty of warning signs before spraying, but getting too close may result in an unpleasant encounter.

• Wildlife Viewing Ethics: Use red lights at night, avoid disturbing dens, and never attempt to handle or feed wild skunks.

Conclusion

Colorado’s skunk population is more diverse than most people realize. While the Striped Skunk is the most familiar and widespread, the Eastern Spotted Skunk and Western Spotted Skunk add to the state’s wildlife richness with their unique spotted patterns and behaviors. These small carnivores play an essential role in maintaining ecological balance, controlling pests, and enriching Colorado’s biodiversity.

By learning to identify the different types of skunks and respecting their habitats, residents and visitors can better appreciate these misunderstood animals. Whether you encounter a striped skunk digging for grubs in a backyard or catch a rare glimpse of a spotted skunk performing its handstand defense, each sighting is a reminder of Colorado’s vibrant wildlife.

FAQs about Skunks in Colorado

What types of skunks live in Colorado?

Colorado is home to three types of skunks: the Striped Skunk, the Eastern Spotted Skunk, and the Western Spotted Skunk. The striped skunk is the most common and widespread, while the spotted skunks are smaller, more agile, and less frequently seen.

Are skunks dangerous to humans?

Skunks are not aggressive toward humans and usually avoid confrontation. However, they can spray a foul-smelling musk when threatened. This defensive spray can cause irritation to the eyes and nose but is not life-threatening. Skunks may also carry rabies, so it’s best to observe them from a safe distance.

Where are skunks most commonly found in Colorado?

Striped skunks are found throughout the state, from plains to foothills, often near farms and suburban areas. Eastern Spotted Skunks are more common in the eastern and southeastern regions, while Western Spotted Skunks are usually seen in western Colorado’s rocky and canyon habitats.

What do skunks eat in Colorado?

All skunk species in Colorado are omnivores. Their diet includes insects, grubs, rodents, bird eggs, fruits, and carrion. Striped skunks are often spotted digging in lawns for beetle larvae, while spotted skunks are skilled climbers and hunters of small rodents.

Do skunks hibernate in Colorado?

Skunks do not fully hibernate, but they may enter a state of torpor during the coldest winter months. Striped skunks often den in groups to conserve body heat, while spotted skunks remain more solitary. They become more active again in early spring.

How can you tell the difference between striped and spotted skunks?

The Striped Skunk has two bold white stripes running down its back, while Spotted Skunks have irregular white markings that appear as broken stripes or spots. Spotted skunks are also smaller and more agile, often climbing trees and performing handstand displays before spraying.

What should you do if a skunk sprays near your home?

If a skunk sprays near your house or pet, the odor can linger. A common deodorizing solution is a mix of hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and dish soap. Avoid tomato juice, as it only masks the smell temporarily. For persistent problems, contacting wildlife control may be necessary.