You might wonder what happens to skunks when winter arrives. Do they hibernate like bears, or do they keep moving around? The truth is that skunks do not fully hibernate, but they do slow down. They spend most of the cold months hidden away in safe, warm places. This behavior is called skunk winter nesting.

So, where do skunks nest in the cold weather? They find sheltered spots close to homes, sheds, or natural spaces that keep them safe from freezing temperatures. By looking at where skunks live in winter and their cold weather behavior, you can better understand how they survive and why they sometimes end up close to people’s houses.

At Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control in Baltimore, we often see skunks move into areas that seem quiet and safe—unfortunately, this can include people’s properties. In this article, we’ll cover the most common nesting spots, explain their behavior in cold weather, and share how our team helps prevent these problems.

Do Skunks Hibernate?

Skunks don’t hibernate the way bears do. Instead, they enter a light sleep called torpor. During torpor, their body slows down, and they rest for long periods. They might wake up on warmer days to search for food, but return quickly to their nest.

This is why skunk winter nesting matters so much. They need a safe spot to survive months of cold weather. Without protection, they wouldn’t make it through the season.

Crawl Spaces

Crawl spaces are one of the most common winter nesting spots. The ground is soft, making it easy for skunks to dig under vents or weak foundations. Once inside, the crawl space stays warmer than the outdoors, giving them a cozy hideout.

• These areas trap odors, which is why families often smell them before seeing any signs.
• Because crawl spaces are rarely checked, skunks can live there unnoticed for weeks.
• Over time, droppings and digging may damage the structure.

This is often one of the first places our team inspects when a homeowner calls about strange smells in the winter.

Decks and Porches

Decks and porches provide excellent cover. They’re dark, sheltered, and often near food sources like garbage bins or gardens. Families usually notice digging around the edges of a deck before realizing what’s living underneath.

Skunks also use decks to raise their young in spring, so a winter nest can easily turn into a bigger problem later. Because decks are so close to the home, smells and health risks spread quickly.

Sheds and Outbuildings

Garden sheds are another favorite. Skunks squeeze through broken doors, loose panels, or gaps at the base. Once inside, they find a warm and quiet space, perfect for winter rest.

• Stored tools, seeds, and pet food can attract them even more.
• Skunks may also dig burrows under sheds, weakening the structure.
• Most people don’t realize anything is wrong until they notice strong smells or damage in spring.

Garages

Garages are a hidden invitation if the door seals aren’t tight. Food smells, garbage, or even pet food can draw skunks inside. Once there, they may spray if startled, which makes the problem worse.

Garages also give them direct access to the rest of the home. Families sometimes notice footprints, droppings, or overturned bins before realizing they have a nesting animal inside.

Basements

While less common, basements with cracks or broken vents can attract skunks. These spaces stay warm and safe, making them worth the effort.

If they get into a basement, the problems can spread quickly. Odors travel through air vents, and droppings may damage stored belongings. Since basements connect directly to the rest of the house, infestations here can be especially stressful.

Attics

Most people don’t think of attics as a place for skunks, but it does happen. If an animal manages to climb or follow another entry point, they may end up there.

Attics provide insulation, warmth, and quiet shelter. Unfortunately, droppings in this space can ruin insulation and create health risks. Families usually notice the smell or scratching sounds before discovering the nest.

Gardens and Compost Piles

While not technically “inside,” gardens and compost piles attract skunks during winter. Easy food sources like vegetables, fruit scraps, and insects draw them in. Once they’re close, they may dig nearby and move under decks, sheds, or crawl spaces.

If food is available, it won’t take long for them to settle nearby. That’s why outdoor food management is just as important as securing the inside of a home.

Vents and Openings

Loose grates or open vents are easy doorways. Dryer vents, furnace openings, or other warm exhausts make especially attractive spots in cold weather.

Once inside, skunks may cause clogs or even fire hazards. Families often notice strange smells from heating systems before realizing what’s happening. Covering and sealing vents is a key step in prevention.

Under Steps

Wooden or concrete steps often leave hollow spaces underneath. These areas are dark, safe, and close to the house—exactly what skunks want. In spring, females may also use these spots for raising young. Because steps are hard to inspect, families often don’t discover the problem until the smell becomes impossible to ignore. 

Skunks also like these spots because they stay dry compared to open soil. Once they dig in, they may create tunnels that weaken the steps and make repairs more expensive. Over time, this hidden shelter can grow into a long-term den if it isn’t dealt with.

Trash Storage Areas

Garbage bins stored against the house can invite skunks right to your door. The smell of leftovers draws them in, and cracks or gaps nearby give them a way to shelter. What starts as a nightly visit for food can turn into a full winter nest. This is why it’s best to keep bins sealed and away from the house whenever possible. 

Trash areas also attract insects, which are another food source for skunks. If the area stays messy, it becomes a double reward of shelter and snacks. Families often don’t notice the issue until digging or strong odors become obvious signs.

Skunk Cold Weather Behavior

During the coldest months, skunks slow down but don’t fully disappear. Their main habits include:

• Sleeping for Long Stretches: They rest in their nests for days or weeks at a time.
• Searching for Food on Warm Nights: They may come out briefly when temperatures rise.
• Sharing Dens: Sometimes several females group together for warmth.

This behavior makes skunk winter nesting more predictable. If you know the signs, you can spot them before the problem grows.

Preventing Skunk Nesting With Professionals

You might wonder what you can do to keep your home safe. The truth is that prevention works best when handled by professionals. At Skedaddle, we focus on safe, proven methods.

Our team:

• Inspects homes for weak points where animals can enter.
• Uses one-way doors that let skunks leave but not re-enter.
• Seals entry points to keep them from coming back.
• Provides long-term solutions instead of short-term fixes.

By working with experts, you protect both your family and the animals.

A Final Word: Keeping Skunks Out of Your Home

Skunk winter nesting explains a lot about where skunks live in winter and their cold weather behavior. They look for warmth, food, and shelter—often too close to people’s homes. Crawl spaces, decks, sheds, and other spots around your property are all at risk.

At Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control in Baltimore, we help families handle these challenges the safe way. Our proven methods protect your home while respecting the animals.

Request an estimate today to learn more about skunk winter nesting and how to keep your home protected during the cold months.