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

Andy
3/15/2024
Reliable and helpful. Raymond was so nice to me and pleasant today. I’ve been with you guys a long time. No complaints!
Andrew
3/15/2024
They did what they said they would do. Price was fair and their service was outstanding. I couldn’t have been happier with the technicians they sent out or the people I spoke to over the phone. Quality people all around and a company that stands behind their word.
Joan
3/14/2024
Taylor did a fantastic job. She was very patient since I had to move my van out of the garage for her. I just hadn't gotten around to doing that.
Alexandra
3/13/2024
They have saved me from both raccoons and squirrels. Very convenient and easy to work with. I hope I don't have to call them again (because I hope I never have another wild animal problem again). However, if I do, I can rest easy knowing where to find professionals who know their stuff.
bweidber
3/12/2024
Critter Control performed a very thorough examination of our house and identified animal entry points and the type of critters that frequent our home. They fully explained the remediation plan for our home including scheduled follow up visits. We feel comfortable that this company will eliminate our critter problem once and for all.
LaNita
3/12/2024
Very responsive and responsible. After my services were completed, I called and reported "Something is trying to get in". They put up "Grace Trapping" for another week. So happy they did because they trapped a possum, and I have not heard anything since. Very polite staff on the phone. No pressure. Understanding about the stress. I'd recommend them to anyone who has critters in their attic or home!
Michael
3/9/2024
Curt was very professional and prompt to my house within 15 min and safely and humanely removed the muskrat from my window well. Highly recommend!!
Justin
3/9/2024
Called about a bird stuck in my vents. They arrived within an hour and were able to get it out. They also set up preventative measures for us. Reasonably priced, would definitely use them again for future critters.
Wallace
3/8/2024
excellent work
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