HOW TO GET RID OF SKUNKS

The skunks or Mephitidae are a family of medium-sized mammals, typically black-and-white-furred. They are found throughout both North and South America, being absent only from the far north of Canada. Skunks are best known for their ability to spray a foul-smelling fluid as a defense against predators.

Damage and Damage Identification

Skunks become a nuisance when their burrowing and feeding habits conflict with humans. They may burrow under porches or buildings by entering foundation openings. Garbage or refuse left outdoors may be disturbed by skunks. Skunks may damage beehives by attempting to feed on bees. Occasionally, they feed on corn, eating only the lower ears. If the cornstalk is knocked over, however, raccoons are more likely the cause of damage. Skunks dig holes in lawns, golf courses, and gardens to search for insect grubs found in the soil.

Odor is not always a reliable indicator of the presence or absence of skunks. Sometimes dogs, cats, or other animals that have been sprayed by skunks move under houses and make owners mistakenly think skunks are present.

Legal Status

Striped skunks are not protected by law in most states, but the spotted skunk is fully protected in some. Legal status and licensing requirements vary. Check with state wildlife officials before removing any skunks.

Damage Prevention and Control Methods

Exclusion
Buildings: close cellar and outside basement and crawl space doors; seal and cover all openings including window wells and pits.

Poultry yards: install wire mesh fences.

Beehives: elevate and install aluminum guards.

Habitat Modification
Removal of garbage, debris, and lumber piles.

Frightening
Lights and sounds are of limited value.

Repellents
Some home remedies such as moth balls or flakes or ammonia solution may be useful, but no repellents are registered.

Toxicants
None are registered.

Fumigants
Gas cartridges.

Trapping
Box trap. Leghold trap.

Shooting
Practical only when animals are far from residential areas.

Other Methods
Skunk removal. Odor removal.

 

For help getting rid of skunks, contact your local Critter Control office. To find a Critter Control office near you, check out our Office Finder.