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Wildlife Hotline: (516) 674-0982
Wildlife Center of Long Island
Wildlife Hotline: (516) 674-0982

Skunks on Long Island

The Striped Skunk is the only species of skunk found in New York. They are more commonly found in upstate New York but have begun being seen more frequently on Long Island in recent years. Skunks are about the size of a house cat and can be found living almost anywhere food and shelter are available. Their adaptable nature has made living in urban and suburban areas fairly easy for them. Skunks are omnivores eating plant and animal matter but most commonly dine on small insects like beetles, grasshoppers, grubs, and worms.

Did you know?

Skunks are most known for their smelly spray. However, this is usually the last line of defense when a skunk feels threatened. When a skunk first encounters a threat it will spit, growl, stomp the ground, fluff up its fur, and shake its tail. If these do not deter the predator then it will resort to spraying.

Coexisting with Skunks

Skunks are an important part of our environment, here are some ways to coexist with them.

  • Use animal-proof trash cans like these
  • Seal up any entrances to basements and window wells
  • Keep shed and garage doors shut
  • Do not leave any human or animal food out overnight
  • Use fencing or electronic repellents like these to keep skunks off your property 

Wildlife Center of Long Island is not licensed to care for skunks. You can contact our hospital about a sick or injured skunk and we will provide you with the appropriate resources.

Help Us Support Wildlife

We rely on donations from the community to provide the best possible rescue, care and rehabilitation to Long Island’s Wildlife.

Wildlife on Long Island

Long Island is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and marine life. Here are some examples of the wildlife you might find on Long Island.

Opossums

Pigeons

Rabbits

Raccoons

Raptors

Reptiles & Amphibians

Shorebirds & Seabirds

Small Rodents

Songbirds

Squirrels

Waterfowl

Woodchucks