Skunk Problems? How to Safely Remove and Exclude Them

Skunks can be a charming part of nature, but when they invade our backyards or homes, they can quickly become a nuisance. Their notorious spray is just one of the many reasons to address skunk problems promptly and effectively. At Critter Control of Kaw Valley, we understand the importance of humanely managing wildlife. Here’s how to safely remove skunks from your property and prevent them from returning.

Understanding Skunk Behavior

Before tackling skunk removal, it’s essential to understand their behavior. Skunks are primarily nocturnal, foraging for food at night. They are attracted to easy food sources like pet food, garbage, and fallen fruit. Knowing their habits helps in creating an effective exclusion strategy.

Safe Removal of Skunks

Assess the Situation

If you spot a skunk in your yard, take a moment to observe. Is it just passing through, or has it set up a den? If a skunk has made itself at home, it’s time to act. Never attempt to corner or capture a skunk on your own; this could provoke a defensive spray.

Contact Professionals

At Critter Control of Kaw Valley, we specialize in humane wildlife removal. Our trained technicians use safe and effective methods to relocate skunks without harm. We employ traps that comply with local regulations and ensure the skunks are released far from residential areas.

Avoid DIY Solutions

While some may consider DIY traps or repellents, these methods can be dangerous and often ineffective. Using chemical repellents or trying to scare skunks away can lead to unintended consequences, including distress for the animal and potential harm to pets.

Exclusion Techniques

Once the skunks are safely removed, the next step is to prevent them from returning. Here are some effective exclusion strategies:

Secure Trash and Food Sources

Skunks are scavengers. Keep your garbage cans sealed and remove any pet food or bird seed from your yard. Compost piles should also be secured, as they can attract skunks.

Seal Entry Points

Inspect your home and property for any potential entry points. Skunks can squeeze through surprisingly small openings, so sealing gaps in fences, under decks, and around foundations is crucial. Use sturdy materials like hardware cloth or wire mesh to block access.

Inspect Your Property:

Start by examining the perimeter of your home and yard. Look for:

Fences: Check for gaps at the bottom or any broken sections. Skunks can dig under fences or squeeze through weak spots.
Decks and Porches: Look beneath these structures for any openings. Skunks often seek shelter in dark, secluded areas, making this a prime location for them.
Foundations: Inspect the base of your home for cracks or holes that could allow entry. Pay special attention to areas around pipes and vents.

Seal the Gaps:

Once you've identified potential entry points, it's time to seal them off. Here are some effective materials and methods:

Hardware Cloth: This strong wire mesh is ideal for blocking openings. It’s durable and can withstand attempts by skunks to push through.
Wire Mesh: A slightly finer option than hardware cloth, wire mesh can be used for smaller gaps while still providing a solid barrier.
Cement or Concrete: For larger openings, especially in foundations, consider using cement to seal the gap permanently.
Wooden Planks: Use treated wood to cover larger areas, ensuring it’s securely fastened to prevent skunks from prying it open.

Eliminate Shelter

Skunks look for sheltered areas to nest. Clear away debris, tall grass, and woodpiles that could provide hiding spots. If you have sheds or outbuildings, ensure they are secured and that skunks cannot access them.

Clear Debris:

Start by conducting a thorough cleanup of your yard and surrounding areas. Consider the following:

Remove Clutter: Dispose of any unnecessary items such as old furniture, appliances, or other debris that can create hiding spots. Skunks often find shelter in items that are piled up or neglected.
Yard Waste: Regularly clear away leaves, branches, and other organic debris. Compost piles, if not managed properly, can also attract skunks, so consider enclosing them or using a bin with a secure lid.

Manage Vegetation:

Skunks are more likely to hide in overgrown areas, so it’s important to maintain your landscaping:

Mow the Lawn: Keep grass trimmed to a reasonable height. Tall grass and weeds provide excellent cover for skunks and other wildlife.
Prune Shrubs and Bushes: Trim back any dense vegetation that could serve as a nesting area. Pay attention to areas close to your home or sheds, as skunks often prefer proximity to food sources.

Address Woodpiles:

Woodpiles can be especially attractive to skunks, as they provide both shelter and warmth. To manage this:

Store Wood Properly: If you have firewood, stack it neatly and raise it off the ground on a rack. This makes it less appealing to skunks and other animals looking for shelter.
Regularly Inspect Woodpiles: Check for any signs of nesting or habitation and take action if you find evidence of skunks or other wildlife.

Secure Sheds and Outbuildings:

Sheds and outbuildings can serve as perfect dens for skunks. To prevent access:

Check for Gaps and Holes: Inspect the walls, doors, and windows of your sheds for any openings. Seal any cracks or gaps using sturdy materials like hardware cloth or wood.
Close Off Under-Deck Areas: If you have decks or porches, ensure there are no gaps beneath them. Skunks can easily access these spaces, so consider adding lattice or skirting to block entry.
Lock Doors and Windows: Make sure that any doors or windows to sheds and outbuildings can be securely closed and locked when not in use.

Landscape Wisely

Consider planting skunk-repelling plants like lavender or rosemary, which can deter them with their scent. Additionally, keeping your yard well-lit at night can make it less appealing for nocturnal creatures.

Skunk-Repelling Plants

Lavender: Known for its fragrant scent, lavender not only adds beauty to your garden but also helps mask other odors that may attract skunks. Its essential oils can be off-putting to these critters.
Rosemary: This aromatic herb can serve dual purposes—culinary and protective. Its strong fragrance can deter skunks while providing fresh herbs for your kitchen.
Sage: Similar to rosemary, sage is aromatic and can help create a natural barrier against skunks. Its bushy growth can also provide additional habitat for beneficial insects.
Thyme: Another herb with a strong scent, thyme can be used as ground cover to help keep skunks at bay while enhancing your garden's aesthetic.
Citronella: Often associated with repelling mosquitoes, citronella’s strong scent can also help deter skunks, making it a multifunctional addition to your landscape.

Lighting Adjustments

Well-Lit Areas: Installing motion-sensor lights can effectively illuminate dark corners of your yard. Skunks, being nocturnal creatures, prefer dark, sheltered spaces. Bright lighting can discourage them from wandering into your property.
String Lights or Lanterns: In addition to practical lighting, consider using decorative string lights or lanterns to create an inviting atmosphere. This not only enhances your outdoor space but also keeps skunks at bay.
Spotlights: Strategically placed spotlights can highlight pathways or garden areas, making it less appealing for skunks to venture close.

Landscape Design Choices

Plant Density: Use dense, thorny shrubs or prickly plants around the perimeter of your yard. This not only provides a natural barrier but can also deter skunks from digging or burrowing.
Mulch and Ground Cover: Opt for mulch types that skunks dislike, such as pine needles, which may also help prevent them from nesting. Ground covers like creeping thyme can create a lush carpet that is less hospitable to digging.
Water Features: If you have a pond or fountain, ensure it is properly maintained. Stagnant water can attract skunks and other wildlife, so keep it fresh and moving.