Can you own a domesticated skunk in Illinois?

8 Illinois Admin. Code Section 25.110 Animals Prohibited from Sale. BANS sale of skunks as pets, dangerous animals in contradiction to the Dangerous Animals Act (plus servals, civets and hybrids other than CFA/TICA cats and UKC/CKC dogs), and turtles in violation of the Public Health Service Act .

Can you keep skunks as pets?

When born and raised in captivity, skunks can make for friendly, intelligent, and unique pets. They can learn to be comfortable when handled by people, and they can be quite playful and cuddly. Native to North America, skunks are known for their scent glands that can spray foul-smelling chemicals at predators.

Are skunks protected in Illinois?

In Illinois, skunks are protected as Furbearers. In urban areas, skunks that are causing property damage or that pose a public health threat may be removed if an animal removal permit is issued by an IDNR District Wildlife Biologist.

How long can skunks live in captivity as pets?

Skunks typically live 3 years in the wild, 15 years in captivity.

How is a skunk Descented?

The most notable difference between wild and domestic skunks is the lack of scent glands. Domesticated skunks are descented when they are between two and five weeks of age, and grow up “unarmed.” While a relatively simple procedure, there is some debate as to whether or not descenting skunks is humane.

How much does a domesticated skunk cost?

A skunk can be a costly pet, especially the first year. Skunk kits cost between $150 and $500, and spay or neuter can cost up to $250. Add to that the costs for food, cage(s), litter boxes, bed(s), toys, daily diet supplements, and other costs. Verify that it is legal to own a pet skunk where you live.

How much does a pet skunk cost?

A skunk can be a costly pet, especially the first year. Skunk kits cost between $150 and $500, and spay or neuter can cost up to $250. Add to that the costs for food, cage(s), litter boxes, bed(s), toys, daily diet supplements, and other costs.

What kind of skunks are in Illinois?

striped skunk
The striped skunk may be found statewide in Illinois. It lives in pastures with grassy fencerows, weedy roadsides or open woods. The striped skunk eats amphibians, birds, carrion, garbage, grasses, insects, fruits, small mammals, reptiles, roots and vegetables. It feeds and is active mostly during the night.

Can skunks be litter trained?

LITTER BOX TRAINING: Skunks will naturally use a corner of a room/rooms to go potty in. The easiest way to train your skunk to use a litterbox is to set the litterbox in the corner they are going to naturally to use the restroom. They may choose more than one corner in your home.

Can Descented skunks still spray?

Caring for Pet Skunks Baby skunks are de-scented at an early age (male skunks at 3-4 months old, and females at 4-6 months old), so there is never any concern of them letting loose their musky spray.