Although skunks are well known for their ability to spray a stinky fluid in self-defence, their destructive behaviour is usually lesser-known. But they sure can create a nuisance around your home!
One of the telltale signs of knowing you have a skunk problem is recognizing their smell. Unlike anything you’ve ever smelled before, a skunk’s foul odour can cause sickness – and if sprayed, can be challenging to get rid of.
Besides leaving a smell behind, skunks can create extensive yard damage. In the pursuit of grubs, skunks will dig up a lawn, leaving tracks in the area freshly dug up.
Skunk tracks are recognized by having five paw prints with a nail imprint attached to each. Their droppings are also easily recognizable since they can be up to four inches long and at least a half inch round.
Here’s what to do to prevent skunks from making your property their next home.
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Get Rid of Food Sources
Skunks love to eat berries and nuts, so regularly pick up any fallen ones from your yard. Any water source or pet food should also be removed.
Have a garden? Prevent a hungry skunk from enjoying your harvest before you get to picking the ripe fruits or vegetables as soon as possible.
Discard any type of vegetation like lawn clippings, since they may contain seeds or other food sources for skunks.
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Protect Your Waste
Like raccoons, skunks are known for foraging through garbage. Be sure to keep your garbage protected by tying up your trash before covering the can with a lid.
Since the smell of garbage can attract skunks, keep it stored inside a shed or garage at night.
Be sure to use an enclosed compost bin so that skunks are prevented from foraging on old fruits, vegetables, peels or eggshells.
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Use Light and Water as Deterrents
Like raccoons, skunks are nocturnal animals and as such, prefer the darkness.
Any well-lit yard will appear less appealing to skunks, so consider installing solar lighting or motion sensors.
Automated sprinklers have a similar effect and can frighten skunks so much that they never return to your yard again.
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Close Off Hiding Places
Skunks enjoy shelter, so it’s important to cover up any openings in your deck, shed or porch.
As effective diggers, skunks can squeeze their way into a minimum four-inch-wide hole. Use rocks, plywood, logs and mesh wire to prevent skunks from creating a cozy home in your yard. -
Use a Skunk Repellent Chemical
Although they must be reapplied every few days (especially after rainfall), certain chemicals are known for being offensive to skunks.
Try spraying products that contain fox or dog urine (both skunk predators) around the perimeter of your yard. Pepper spray is also an effective deterrent and can be sprayed on trees or other areas where you’ve seen skunks.
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Call the Expert
Sometimes no matter what you try, you can’t seem to get rid of your skunk problem.
That’s when calling an expert is your best option!
At Habitat Wildlife Control, we have the experience, skillset, and expertise to make your skunk problem a thing of the past. Call us today to learn more about our services!
