Skunks are a pretty easy nuisance animal to identify. Their unique characteristics, a white stripe down the back of their black fur and notorious stinky smell, are undeniable. Skunks are nocturnal, so it would not be unusual to smell their unique odor without seeing one. However, if that smell lingers day after day, you might have a resident skunk in your yard that requires skunk removal.

Skunk control should never be attempted by a homeowner. These critters are the most common carriers of rabies in many parts of the country. They also carry diseases such as canine distemper, tularemia, and leptospirosis transmitted through a skunk bite. Pets who come into contact with their spray can carry the scent for days. As skunks forage, they can damage foundations, wiring, and plumbing with the long nails on their feet. In addition, the health risks they pose are reason enough to call in professionals from Critter Control.

Why is a Skunk in My Yard?

Skunks are small, adaptable animals that can thrive in many habitats so long as there is a source of food and water. They’ll create dens in brush piles, tree hollows, and underneath porches and sheds. They do not often enter homes. They are also opportunistic eaters whose diet is varied amongst fruit, plants, insects, worms, grubs, and even small mammals and fish.

Skunk Trapping

Skunk trapping is the tactic used to get rid of skunks on your property. Critter Control technicians can quickly locate a skunk den and use trapping techniques to humanely capture and relocate the skunk in your yard. Critter Control will also repair any damage created by the skunk and get rid of any remaining odor.

Skunk Prevention

Since most lawns contain a wide variety of insects and worms, one of the best ways to deter a skunk from making its home in your yard is to make it difficult for them to find a good place to create a den by adding mesh around structures so they cannot get underneath and keep your yard free of brush.

Skunks are equipped with strong feet and long nails made for digging. They are capable of damaging homes and businesses when burrowing for food or shelter, including damage to foundations, electrical wiring, and plumbing. A skunk’s spray is also capable of ruining outdoor furniture or equipment. 

Never attempt to handle a skunk without the help of a professional. Skunks pose a significant threat to your health, pets, and property. These nocturnal pests are the most common carriers of rabies in many parts of the country, and carry diseases such as tularemia, leptospirosis, and canine distemper. These diseases are transmitted through bites and not through a skunk’s spray. A skunk’s sulfuric spray, which is known for its intense odor, is a defense mechanism and only used when a skunk feels cornered or threatened. If you or your pet come in contact with skunk spray, it can cause nausea or vomiting. 


Information Reviewed and Approved by Sean Carruth, VP of Communications at Critter Control.

Learn more about Skunks and Skunk intrusions by following the links below!

What Attracts Skunks How to Identify a Skunk Diseases & Property Damage Skunk Removal


Source: The Handbook: Prevention and Control of Wildlife Damage - Skunks. James E. Knight, 1994.
 

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Animals digging in your yard? Skunk odors? Skunks under your home or porch? These are oftentimes indicators that skunks are living on or near your property. Call your local Critter Control office today at 1 800-CRITTER for effective skunk removal and exclusion services.

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Testimonials

Alan
2/19/2024
Excellent job. Very personable employee.Thank you John Cavendish.
Katie
2/19/2024
Such a great company to work with. Always responded quickly! Very professional. Definitely recommend.
Jon
2/19/2024
Taylor has always done a great job at our house and not only navigates our attic with ease but makes sure the outside stations are in good shape.
Helen
2/14/2024
This company has been great. The technician Kensi was very through and checked everywhere to make sure all access points were found. After a skunk was found in the trap on a Saturday morning they came to pick it up very quickly.
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2/13/2024
Michael was super friendly and knowledgeable. He checked my entire house and recommended and installed the solution within an hour.
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2/12/2024
Jacob did a great job inspecting the house. I felt certain I had a squirrel nesting in my roof. There was no evidence of squirrel entrance and all eave areas were tight and sealed. The inspection gave me peace of mind. Thank you!
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We are under contract with your company and so far they are doing a fine job. Many thanks.
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2/6/2024
Excellent work environment full of presence of God. Professional and dedicated staff. A good place if you want to have your children in a place where Christian values are protected and encouraged.
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2/5/2024
Taylor provided an excellent assessment of our raccoon issue. Thorough and answered all of our questions. Thank you!
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