by Marvin Reynolds
Extension Director -Huerfano County
OUR WORLD — Every spring the animals who hibernated or found another way to spend the winter become active. Raccoons and skunks are the two animals that do not hibernate, but go into torpor. They slow their body functions so they don’t use up body food stores as fast as when they are active.
They are also the two who most often cause problems or concern with homeowners and residents when they wake up. Both animals have become more active in the last couple weeks.
Raccoons don’t truly hibernate, but they do “hole up” in dens. During the winter this denning, may occur for several weeks or months, depending on the cold weather. Raccoons may move around some during winter, but not very much in Colorado.
Skunks don’t move around as much as raccoons in the winter months. They can leave their den in winter, but it occurs more often farther south, in warmer areas. From December to February, skunks are seldom active.
Raccoons usually breed in February and March. About two months later, the young are born in April or May. They can have babies as late as June through August. Family groups usually stay together for the first year. They usually separate the following spring.
Skunks also usually breed in February and March. Young are born in early May. Litter size may be from two to 10 young. There are four species of skunks in Colorado. The striped skunk is the most common. It is found throughout Colorado up to 10,000 feet elevation.
Raccoons and skunks are both nocturnal, they are more active at night or at dusk and dawn. Both animals can be seen during the day if they are hunting for food or a mate. Evenings and mornings are the most common time to see them active.
Raccoons prefer to have a den in rock crevices. If one is not available, they will use hollow trees, ground burrows, and abandoned buildings as well as other hidden sites.
Skunks may dig under buildings when looking for a den site. They will also den under brush piles, in burrows and under brush piles as well.
Late winter and spring, (February through May), are the most common times to find rabid raccoons or skunks. If these animals are seen during the day and are acting unusual, they may have rabies.
Avoid being bitten by them. If you are bitten there are steps to follow. 1. Retain the animal (dead or alive), if possible to do so without further injury. 2. Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water. 3. Contact the local animal control to pick up the animal and have it tested for rabies. 4. See your doctor as soon as possible. (NO later than 72 hours). Get a tetanus shot if it needs updated. 5. If the animal is available for testing it will determine if you need a rabies vaccination. Your doctor can give you recommendations. If the animal is not available, you should get the rabies vaccination as a protective measure.
The best option is to keep a raccoon or skunk from becoming a problem. Keep wood piles cleaned up around your property. Store garbage in a tightly sealed container. Keep pet food cleaned up. Don’t feed pets outdoors if possible. Pick up water for pets as well.
If a raccoon or skunk is a problem, they can be relocated. You need to contact the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Office to make them aware of your actions. They may also give you a location to relocate the animal to.
There are no repellents listed for skunks or raccoons. Ammonia-soaked rags or moth balls may be a short-term repellent. Exclusion is a better option.
Live trapping of animals is best done using a trap that is 24 by 7 by 7 inches or larger. Use peanut butter as bait for skunks. Be prepared to catch cats when trapping raccoons however, because they eat many of the same foods. Flavored cat food, sardines and eggs can be used as bait for raccoons and skunks.
For information on relocating raccoons or skunks, contact the Extension Office or Colorado Parks and Wildlife Service. Striped skunks cannot be relocated, but other species may be with a permit from the Colorado Parks and Wildlife Service. Raccoons can be relocated if you get a permit from Colorado Parks and Wildlife Services before relocating the animal.
