A Ground Skunk's Diet

The common skunk is an omnivorous creature, meaning that it will eat both plant and animal matter. This can cause problems with both wild and pet skunks that may eat inappropriate foods when they come into contact with them. It is important to monitor the diet of a pet skunk to keep it healthy. Trash, animal eggs and crops should be guarded from wild skunks.

  1. Wild Skunk Diet

    • According to the Havahart website, wild skunks commonly eat a combination of foods and are not very picky about their diets. Common foods eaten by wild skunks include beetles, insect larvae and earthworms. Skunks have also been known to feed on eggs, field mice, lizards, fallen fruit and garbage.

    Winter Feeding

    • During the winter, skunks naturally fast and often skip many meals, according to the Skunk Haven website. As a result, it is common for skunk owners to fast their pets over the winter. This is recommended especially for overweight skunks.

    Feeding Pet Skunks

    • Pet skunks should be fed a variety of vegetables and meats, according to the Skunk Haven website. Do not feed skunks cat food or other canned foods. These foods contain too much salt and fat for a skunk. Feed them a mixture of fresh or frozen vegetables and lean meat. The appropriate amount of food varies depending on the skunk. Do not leave food out all day; pick up the bowl after about 20 to 30 minutes when the skunk stops eating. Skunks benefit from taurine, vitamin and calcium supplements. Vary the types of foods often, as skunks may not eat when they are bored with foods.

    Water

    • Skunks do not drink much water on their own, states the Skunk Haven website. Skunk owners should keep fresh water around but do not be alarmed if the skunk does not drink very much. Feed skunks fresh vegetables and cooked grains to provide water content from their food.

    Problems

    • According to the University of California Davis, when skunks make their nests in a yard or on a farm, problems may arise. Skunks are known to forage in garbage cans while looking for food. Skunks are also classified as agricultural pests. They may eat eggs from hens or nesting birds. These animals are also known to try to feed from beehives and cause damage to the hives.