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Skunk Awareness Program

Dozens of Snowy Plovers nest at Coal Oil Point Reserve between March and September. During breeding season 2007, over 40 Snowy Plover eggs were eaten by skunks. Although skunks are a native predator of Snowy Plovers, their numbers have grown substantially in the past several years. Prior to human alteration of the natural environment, coyotes and bobcats kept skunk numbers to a minimum. Snowy Plovers are unable to react to the current surplus of skunks.

In response, Shorelines & Watersheds has initiated a Skunk Awareness Program to alert communities surrouding Coal Oil Point Reserve about this issue. Shorelines & Watersheds has distributed over 1000 flyers in neighborhoods surrounding Coal Oil Point Reserve. We also have published articles about our program in the Goleta Valley Voice.

What can you do? Keep your garbage in a tightly sealed garbage can, store pet food indoors, and seal off entrances to decks and attics where skunks might make their homes. Extra food provides nutrition for skunks, making them more successful breeders. We do not want to exterminate skunks, but we do want to keep their numbers to levels where Western Snowy Plovers can have successful breeding seasons.