Do Skunks Eat Garden Vegetables?
Skunks, known for their bold black-and-white stripes, are omnivorous by nature. They will consume both plant and animal sources of nourishment. While skunks are attracted to easy-to-obtain food sources such as garbage cans, pet food, and garden vegetables, they also prefer pursuing their natural diet.
Skunks’ Preferred Natural Diet
Skunks’ natural diet consists of:
- Insects
- Mice
- Berries
- Fruits
- Grubs
- Nuts
- Snails
- Earthworms
- Carrion
Skunks prefer their natural diet because it provides a healthy balance of nutrients. They will, however, eat garden vegetables—such as lettuce, carrots, and tomatoes—if their natural sources are scarce.
Protecting Your Garden from Skunks
If you are hoping to protect your garden from skunks and other pests, here are a few critical tips:
- Mow your grass and trim back hedges and shrubs regularly.
- Tend to your garden regularly, removing dead stems and leaves.
- Remove bird feeders and secure your compost pile.
- Install a fence around your garden 3–4 feet high.
- Use water spray on troublesome animals.
- Place ammonia-soaked rags in trouble areas.
By maintaining a neat, tidy, and secure garden, you can prevent skunks and other pests from snacking on your delicious vegetables.
In conclusion, skunks are omnivorous animals, and they do consume garden vegetables if they become available. The best way to protect your garden is to stick to a cleaning routine and use methods such as water spray and ammonia-soaked rags to ward off unwanted visitors.
