Skunks are observed to shed twice a year. Experts say that they leave their soft downy layer in the spring season first. By the next time, they shed their courser and longer coat in the fall. If we compare this process with shedding behavior of dogs and cats, Chicago skunk shedding usually lasts for the shorter duration of time. Skunks keep longer fur in the winter season as it helps them to stay warm. These creatures shed their fur same as humans do with their hair.



These nocturnal animals prefer to sleep more in the winter season, but they do not hibernate. When they stay relaxed for the whole season, they may develop a rich, furry coat on their body. This thick coat will shed by the end of winter and then it will appear thin in the spring season. Note that the thicker winter coat is generally warmer and it is also waterproof so that rain and snow do not reach to the actual skin of this animal.

Skunks shed in the spring season for two reasons; one is that they have too much amount of fur on their body and now they want to get rid of it to reduce the unnecessary feeling of heaviness. The second reason is that they love to wear new fur instead of carrying the older one for a long time. However, this shedding pattern varies depending upon the climate in which Illinois skunk lives. The shedding process keeps on repeating as per seasonal changes, and it actually depends upon the amount of sunlight that skunk gets in a routine. The shedding or hair growth process is completely regulated by the variations in pineal gland hormones that are quite responsive towards seasonal sunlight changes. With the higher amount of sunlight, the hair will grow faster; hence in the spring season, it replaces heavies coat with the lighter coat.

Although the major reason behind shedding process in Chicago skunks is seasonal variations, there are few other reasons related to this process. Experts say that Illinois skunks may also lose their fur at different times depending on their lifestyle, age, breed, gender, and nutrition level. The shedding process is also associated with their hormonal, behavioral and health changes. In case if you have a pet skunk, then it is better to learn the tricks to keep this animal healthy. The idea is to allow fur shedding only when it is necessary.

Experts advise avoiding pet skunks with cat food because it can cause weakness in their liver due to rich protein and fat. The preferred diet for skunks includes fruits, cottage cheese, yogurt, and vegetables. In order to stay healthy, skunks also need to exercise, play and socialize. However, in case if you are in trouble due to skunk infestation, it is good to take help from professional skunk exterminators. These professionals know right techniques to handle skunks and can help you to get rid of them safely. Prefer to install a fence around the property to stay safe from skunk attack.

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