One would think looking at the structure of an Illinois skunk, that they can jump. They are roughly the size of a cat and seem to be very nimble. But that doesn’t always mean that the skill set of one animal can transfer into another just because they look the same. If the question is can they ump, it’s likely you’re looking for a way to keep them out of your yard and therefore your home. Skunks are nimble but that doesn’t mean they can get into places easily. Let’s look at their abilities.



They Have No Need
Jumping is generally a method that an animal can use for escape. They jump over something. Imagine a cat trying to get away from a dog, they can jump to a place much higher than a dog can because they are well adapted to that kind of lifestyle. Skunks however have no need for jumping to get away from prey considering most prey will stay away based on the smell alone. Their defense mechanism is a great way for them to keep predators at bay, therefore eliminating the need for them to jump. They can also burrow and get under fences, which again means they have no need to attempt to get over it in one giant leap. If they can crawl under they can easily get into the area they are looking to get to. So to answer the question do Chicago skunks jump? No they do not.

How do they Get in/out?
They can climb, somewhat. They aren’t climbing huge towers but their ability to climb a small fence is known. But, they cannot climb higher fences. A fence over 3 feet tall should provide you with the protection needed to keep them out of your yard from climbing the fence. However, if you have trees near that fence they can utilize their strong claws to climbs those just enough to get over the branch or onto your home. Even smaller items, boxes, haybales, whatever the case may be can be used by an Illinois skunk to get into your yard because they will find a route, if they can’t burrow, they will make an attempt to climb a little bit to get over. Of they will move on to an easier territory. While they do not jump and can’t really climb, the can easily find their way onto your property with a little bit of ingenuity and innovation on their part. Having the areas free from stackable items near the fences, and tree branches that can allow them access over will help to keep them out of your yard and going elsewhere. Also, if you have a fence, let your dog use it as it’s restroom as the smell will deter the skunk in general. So again, no, Chicago skunks are not jumping anywhere.

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