Why Skunks Eat What Most Animals Fear – You Won’t Believe What is in Their Diet

Tue, 05 May 2026 03:34:51 +0000

Why Skunks Eat What Most Animals Fear: The Surprising Truth About Their Diet You Won’t Believe When you hear the word “skunk,” the first image that comes to mind is usually one of defensive spraying — a noxious route most animals avoid. But here’s a mind-blowing fact: skunks don’t just tolerate what predators fear — they actively consume many of the very things that send other animals fleeing. From insects to small vertebrates, skunks have evolved to eat a diet most overlook — and rarely believe is part of their meals. ### The Skunk’s Fearless Palate: What Do Skunks Really Eat? Skunks are often assumed to be primarily insectivorous or omnivorous scavengers, relying on beetles, grubs, and carrion. While insects do form a large part of their diet, especially during breeding seasons, a closer look reveals far more. You won’t believe it: skunks regularly eat prey and plant matter that most animals actively avoid — including snakes, spiders, small rodents, and even venomous prey like centipedes and scorpions.