Even though the sense of smell of skunks is good, it is not always accurate. They could smell food in an area, dig it up and not find food. This is why they end up digging extensively. Thus, one of the major reasons that skunks dig is to search for food. The damage skunks cause when they dig for food depends on the kind of food they are hoping to get. They may dig and create small mounds of dirt in a yard from regular quests for food. When they go after food such as voles, they cause more significant damage.

Apart from feeding, the critters also dig to build homes. In the wild, skunks make shelters out of burrows made by other animals. They also dig burrows themselves for shelter and nesting. When they move into urban and suburban areas where there are no ready-made burrows, they dig to create shelter. The nests and dens of skunks are found under buildings. They can also dig under foundations to create shelter.

In understanding why skunks dig, we should also consider their anatomy. Skunks are built to dig and apply their features accordingly. The critters have short well-built forelegs. Their feet also end in long claws that are highly effective for digging. Their size, which is similar to that of a cat, also makes them good diggers.

When skunks invade a property and dig extensively, they can damage lawns, yards, and even the structure of the property. They can also destroy gardens since they feed on plant materials.

Skunks may dig through a property or make it their home. The damage they will cause is dependent on the option they go for. Since skunks dig to meet their basic needs, their presence is always associated with damage from digging.