Here’s Why You May Be Seeing More Skunks Than Usual in Maine

It's entirely possible that you've noticed or smelled a few more skunks hanging around Maine than normal.

You're not imagining that. There are more skunks this year hanging around neighborhoods throughout the state. There's also been a lot more skunks that have met their unfortunate demise as roadkill on Maine roads.

There's also a couple of reasons as to why there are more skunks than usual in Maine right now. And the reasons may sound a little familiar.

Skunks Really Enjoyed the Mild Maine Winter

For skunks, the fall and winter can be considered their prime time. During September, October and November, skunks prepare themselves for winter by searching for shelters and fattening themselves up.

But it's the winter where skunks begin to look for love. Male skunks typically wait until February or March to search for a mate. But a mild winter can have them out looking earlier and for longer. Hence, a massive bump in the skunk population will come the following year.

Squirrels Saw the Same Bump in Population

Most people in Maine remember that just a few short years ago, there seemed to be a squirrel apocalypse. Something rare happened in both 2016 and 2017 as nut-bearing trees in Maine had "mast" crops, yielding massive amounts of acorns. The acorn overage led to a ballooning of the squirrel and chipmunk population in Maine.

That also led to some serious squirrel roadkill, which is currently happening to many of the skunk overpopulation.

The Benefits of Skunks in Your Neighborhood

According to InsideNova, while skunks may be pungent in scent, they offer a lot of benefits to people's yards. Skunks typically feed on pests most homeowners are trying to eradicate, like grubs.

Not only that, skunk droppings will often contain seeds from their feeding sessions. That can help probably distribute and disperse seeds for a more healthy, full-looking lawn.