That potent smell is unmistakable. Whether sitting on your back patio or resting in your sunroom when you smell it, you first run to the computer and search “skunk removal near me.” With your fingers crossed, you hope whoever pops up can come out quickly!
Skunks are worse than other furry vermin because not only do they rummage around in your garbage, they stink. If you have one around, or worse yet, living under your house, there are a few things you need to know about skunks, how to get rid of them and keep them from coming back.
The foul scent you smell whenever a skunk is around is caused by the oily odorous liquid produced by a gland at the base of its tail. The furry nuisance can spray a target up to 10 feet away to prevent potential predators from attacking.
They don’t only stink when they spray. The odor remains on the animal and follows the critter wherever it goes. That means that unless you are one of the 1 in 1,000 who cannot smell a skunk, you’ll have to eliminate these nasty critters.
Skunks do serve a purpose in the ecosystem. They are omnivorous and eat various garden pests, such as mice, voles, larvae, crickets, beetles, and wasps. They also remove animal carcasses. They are beneficial scavengers.
However, that is not how you will feel if one is living under your porch. We have provided skunk removal services hundreds of times in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, so we have prepared a small guide to show you the best skunk removal methods and the three steps you can take to rid yourself of these cute but pesky little mammals.
If a skunk is nested somewhere under or around your home, the first thing to do is see what made the critter stop at your house when home shopping. Insects are usually the reason. That is their main food source.
So, if you find insect infestations around your home, a skunk may decide that is a good place to get its favorite meal. Eliminate the other pests, and the skunk will have one less reason to set up residence.
Insects are not all they eat, so if you don’t have a bug problem, but find that you need skunk removal, the food source may be from something else. Take these steps to eliminate possible food sources:
Skunks won’t only be searching for food. A female gives birth an average of once yearly and will have up to 10 offspring in one litter. The soon-to-be-mother will search for a place she feels is fit to give birth. When that place becomes your basement, it’s time to take action. No one wants to be the one to evict a pregnant mom, so it’s best to deter the maternal creature from choosing your home as her nursery.
As experts in skunks removal, we think that the best ways to deter this critter are:
Skunks are nocturnal and fearful of humans, larger animals, and bright lights. They are also not good climbers. Therefore, a 3’ fence will keep them out of any area. Another helpful, professional tip is that you can purchase repellent at nearly any store or make your own. There are some natural repellent recipes online.
Trapping and removing the animal is the only way to ensure that you get rid of the critter. Skunks are docile animals that are mostly harmless to humans, but a skunk’s sulfur-based spray lasts for two or three days before it fades away.
When we provided our skunk removal service, we found that tomato juice baths are a popular remedy when you get sprayed. Still, there is no evidence that this odor-removal technique actually works. Avoiding contact is best. For that reason, you should leave trapping the animal to a professional.
When searching for skunk removal services, consider the following:
Consider the dangers if you have decided to risk tackling skunk trapping and removal on your own. Some states have laws making trapping a skunk without professional credentials illegal. Before you head to the local hardware store or lawn and garden shop, check with the laws in your state.
Skunks have a high level of control over their spray. They can control the intensity of the fragrance and the amount of fluid they release. There are six different species and subspecies of skunks in America. They are bold but won’t aggress a larger animal until it feels threatened. Yet, you never know what unforeseen dangers lurk around with this little irritant.
Skunks could have rabies, fleas, and other diseases. That is why hiring a professional is your only option. At Critter Stop, you can get a free consultation, where a skunk removal professional will determine the best removal method and devise a customized plan to keep this and other vermin from moving in. When you hire us for skunk removal, you are hiring a team of experts who will not only remove the animal. They will also restore your home and offer a lifetime guarantee of their services.
Have skunks moved into your home? Don’t let the stinky pest get comfortable. Call us at (214) 234-2616 to schedule a free consultation. Let our experts from Critter Stop handle your skunk situation now!
FAQ Section: Skunk Removal Questions Answered
Dealing with skunks can be challenging, especially when they invade your space. Whether they’re hiding under your shed, deck, or porch, or you've encountered a unique problem like skunk odor or a trapped skunk, these FAQs provide practical advice for safe and effective solutions.
To get a skunk out of your garage, leave the door open and provide a clear path to exit. If necessary, place a trail of food leading outside, but avoid cornering the skunk to prevent spraying. Seal any potential entry points once the skunk has left to stop it from returning.
Seal all but one entry point under the shed, then use light and noise to make the area less inviting. Sprinkle a natural deterrent like cayenne pepper or ammonia-soaked rags. Once the skunk has left, seal the remaining hole securely.
Use a motion-activated light or sprinkler to scare the skunk away. After ensuring the animal has left, seal all openings around the deck with heavy mesh or concrete barriers. Adding natural repellents like predator urine can further deter skunks from returning.
Identify the skunk’s entry point and use deterrents such as bright lights, loud noises, or vinegar-soaked rags. Monitor the area to ensure the skunk has left before sealing the entrance. If the problem persists, consider calling a professional wildlife removal service.
Block access points except one exit, and place a one-way door at the remaining opening. This allows the skunk to leave but not re-enter. Once gone, thoroughly seal all gaps to prevent future infestations.
Illuminate the area under the porch and introduce strong odors, like citrus peels or ammonia, to drive the skunk out. Once it leaves, install skunk-proof barriers around the base of the porch. This ensures the skunk won’t return.
Remove all food and water sources near the shed, then use ultrasonic repellents or sprinklers to deter the skunk. Once it’s gone, secure all entry points with durable mesh or latticework to prevent reentry.
To neutralize the skunk taste, rinse with baking soda and water or gargle with mouthwash. Avoid eating or drinking until the taste subsides. If the taste persists, brushing your teeth and tongue thoroughly can help.
Set up a humane trap near the shed to capture the skunk safely. Once captured, relocate the skunk following local wildlife guidelines or contact a professional. Seal any openings under the shed to prevent other animals from moving in.
Start by creating an unwelcoming environment using loud noises or bright lights. Install a one-way door to allow the skunk to leave safely. Once it’s gone, block off all access points with heavy-duty materials.
Use motion-activated lights or noise devices near the shed to scare the skunk away. Check for signs of departure, then seal any openings. Reinforcing the area with skunk-proof barriers will prevent future problems.
Sprinkle deterrents like cayenne pepper or predator urine under the porch to make the area unattractive. Verify that the skunk has vacated, then use a hardware cloth to block all openings. Regular inspections can help keep the porch skunk-free.
If you suspect a skunk is rabid, contact animal control or a professional wildlife removal service immediately. Do not approach or attempt to handle the skunk yourself. Rabid animals pose a serious health risk to humans and pets.
Cover the trap with a large cloth to calm the skunk and prevent it from getting sprayed. Carefully move the trap to a designated release site approved by local authorities. Wear gloves and take precautions to prevent direct contact.
Slowly approach the trap and gently lift the release door, positioning you behind the skunk. Allow the skunk to exit independently and step back to avoid triggering a defensive spray. If you’re unsure, consult a wildlife professional for assistance.
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