Skunk pet uk

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De-scenting a skunk is illegal in the UK.

Skunk Accommodation

Skunks are very active and destructive animals so should be housed in a large outdoor enclosure.

skunk pet uk

Additionally, anyone thinking about getting a skunk should be aware of the foul-smelling fluids that they spray when they are overly anxious, extremely terrified, or injured. Skunks are not low-maintenance pets and their upkeep requires commitment. You just need to make sure to get them very early on together or introduce them slowly.

What Skunks Eat

Skunks are omnivorous creatures that feed on berries, grasses, nuts, insects, as well as small mammals, birds, and reptiles in the wild.

This law says you must give your skunk proper care.

You need to provide:

  • The right diet and clean water
  • Good housing and a safe place to live
  • Vet care when it’s needed
  • Protection from pain, suffering, injury, and disease

If you don’t meet these standards, you could face legal trouble. We are the sister company of Exotic Explorers Mobile Zoo.

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In the vast spectrum of possible pets, skunks, though unusual, have been reported as endearing and intelligent animals that some people choose to share their homes with. They can come in the house for attention or training but they shouldn’t be left unsupervised or locked at night when they are more active.

To prevent them from digging out, the enclosure should have a concrete base that is covered with soil and fresh bark.

If the law considers your skunk dangerous or wild, though, your local council might make you get a licence.

Keep records of where and when you got your skunk, just in case. Their ancestors adapted to temperate forests, grasslands, and desert ecosystems in the Western Hemisphere and haven’t spread naturally beyond it.

Are There Any Skunk Populations in Zoos Abroad?

Yes, many zoos across Europe and Asia house skunks for education and conservation purposes, especially striped skunks.

Conclusion: Skunks—Local Icons, Not Global Natives

So, are there skunks in Europe, Asia, or the UK?

The answer is no—but the story is more nuanced. Striped Skunks (Mephitis mephitis): A Complete Overview

Are There Skunks in Europe?

No, skunks are not native to Europe. You won’t find any wild skunks roaming forests in France, Germany, or Italy. So, you’ll have to be prepared for their natural defense mechanism.

Depending on where you live, you might run into some local rules or need certain licenses.

Fortunately for potential skunk owners, the law does not list skunks as dangerous wild animals, meaning that they can be legally owned without a specific license.

However, it’s essential to note that while skunks fall under the general umbrella of “exotic pets,” they are not considered as such for the purposes of the law.

Take a look at Skunks as Pets in the UK.


As someone who’s spent years observing and researching wildlife across continents, I often get asked a simple yet surprising question: “Are there skunks outside of North America?” The short answer is—true skunks (Mephitidae family) are native only to the Americas, and you won’t find wild skunks in Europe, Asia, Africa, or the UK.

However, some look-alike species do exist in other parts of the world, which leads to confusion.

In this article, we’ll explore where skunks naturally live, whether they’ve migrated beyond their native regions, and how European or Asian “skunks” compare to the familiar striped skunks of the U.S. and Canada.

Many of these potential adopters reside in urban areas and are prepared to provide the necessary environment for skunks, including secure indoor spaces and fenced outdoor areas.

Second, they provide support and guidance throughout the rehoming process. You might have to prove your pet can’t escape and cause trouble in the area.

Planning to trade or move skunks across borders?

The animal’s welfare must be the guiding principle throughout the rehoming process.

Utilizing resources such as animal rescue centres and welfare groups can ease the rehoming process. Every single baby is treated as if they were the only one.

We are based in Essex and the company was set up by professional and highly experienced Zoo Keepers that have animal welfare and education at our hearts.

You should keep an eye out for any changes in behaviour, weight, coat condition, breathing, or faeces passed, as well as any changes in appetite. However, skunks are sometimes kept as exotic pets in parts of Europe, especially the UK and Germany.

In Europe, the closest comparison is the European polecat, a member of the weasel family (Mustelidae), not related to true skunks.

Why the Confusion?

  • The polecat gives off a musky odor when threatened, similar to a skunk.
  • Their coloring can resemble a skunk from a distance (especially black-and-white fur).
  • “Polecat” is sometimes used in rural slang for skunks in translated works, adding to the confusion.

Find out more about Types of Skunks by exploring this related topic.