Thornhill Skunk Control Methods
Skunks live in the ground underneath structures like a deck, porch, or shed, and can even dig under an addition to your house, any type of building without a submerged foundation. Finding a skunk under your house can be scary, what with this species’ scent spray, but mainly because of the risk of rabies or other diseases. Most skunks use their spray as a defence mechanism to ward off predators and other critters and to mark their territory. That distinctive stinky scent is from the skunk’s secretion. Skunks are nocturnal and seek shelter in crawl spaces, under porches or near sheds to feel safe from predators. If left alone, a skunk infestation can cause property damage and health risks to pets and humans.
To get rid of skunks when they’re under a house you need to know what attracts them, use effective repellents and proper skunk removal methods. By addressing these you can get rid of the problem humanely and safely.
Why Are Skunks Living Under Your House?
Shelter and Food
Skunks are drawn to places that offer shelter and nourishment. Sometimes the most simple solution to get rid of skunks is by addressing the skunk’s food source you might be supplying them, things like cleaning up any fallen fruit you might have, securing any vegetables in your garden, and fortifying your trash cans is key. Your house and yard may be an attractive place for them due to any dog or cat food left outside, unsecured garbage bins and bird feeders. Having any of these options available to eat in your yard can attract a countless number of critters to your property. Once you get rid of the attractants, it will go along way to deter these animals.
Entry Points and Burrowing Behaviour
If skunks have access to potential entry points like holes in your foundation or gaps under porches they will burrow and create a den. They’re also known to dig holes for food. If left alone these openings can become a long term shelter for a mother skunk and her babies.
How to Tell if You Have a Skunk Infestation
Signs of Skunk Presence
Finding out if you have a skunk issue can be tricky but there are several telltale signs to look for. Skunks are famous for their smell, so that’s usually the first clue. If you notice an unusual disgusting smell around your property it could be a sign of skunks living nearby. Skunks are also skilled diggers and may dig under sheds, decks or other structures. Look for freshly dug holes or disturbed soil as indicators. Tracks and footprints are another giveaway. Skunk tracks have 5 toes on each foot and visible claw marks. You may see these in soft soil or muddy areas. Skunk droppings (not to be confused with raccoon poop) are tubular and found in areas where they are active can also be a sign of their presence. Skunks are also quite vocal, chirping, whining and grunting especially at night or early in the morning.
Confirming Skunk Activity
If you suspect a skunk situation it’s important to confirm their activity before taking action. Start by inspecting your property for signs of digging and burrowing especially under sheds, decks and other structures. Look for skunk tracks and footprints in areas where you think they might be active. Check for skunk droppings to confirm their presence. Do not seal up any holes or entrance areas, you may be trapping a skunk underneath to die.
For a more definitive approach consider using cameras. These devices can capture images or videos of skunks and provide clear evidence of their activity and the extent of the infestation. If you’re not sure what to do or need help with skunk removal, don’t hesitate to contact a wildlife control professional. They can offer expert advice and services for your yard or garden areas to solve the problem.
How to Get Rid of Skunks Living Under a House
Remove Attractants
Removing food sources is the first step in skunk removal. Secure garbage cans, remove pet food and clean up fallen fruit from your garden. Since skunks also eat insects reducing their food source can make your property less inviting.
Use Natural Repellents
Skunks are sensitive to strong smells so repellents are an effective way to deter them. Mix cayenne pepper with water to make a paste to rub on decks, sheds, etc., spread dirty kitty litter or use ammonia-soaked rags near their den to encourage them to leave. Leave the rags in a plastic bag and poke holes in the bag. Mothballs are often suggested but they can be harmful to pets and the environment. Also moth balls are ineffective once a skunk has already established residence in an area, in addition moth balls can loose their scent over time.
Install Motion-Activated Deterrents
Using motion-activated sprinklers or motion-activated lights will startle skunks and make them feel unsafe. You can also get a motion activated sound maker that emits loud noises when motion is detected. Since skunks are nocturnal animals, these deterrents will disrupt their nighttime habits and make them look for shelter elsewhere.
One-Way Door for Humane Removal
A one-way door is a humane solution to evict skunks without direct confrontation. Skunks living on our properties give us challenges such as their stinky smell and their potential to damage gardens and property. Wire meshing should be installed into the ground around the perimeter of the structure with the entrance, and install a one way door in the mesh. Once the skunk leaves in search of food, the door closes and it will not be able to return. This method is most effective during the late autumn to early winter time when skunks are generally solitary, or possibly with other adult skunks for warmth. But if it’s breeding season or if you suspect a mother skunk with babies is underneath, do not set the door. Use natural deterrents and give her time to relocate them.
Trapping Considerations and Local Laws
If natural deterrents don’t work, a live trap in your yard may be necessary. Keep in mind that a baited trap will attract various animals so they’re not always reliable. Only use a live trap for a skunk when you are certain there are no babies. Using bait like tuna, chicken, peanut butter or cat food can help capture the animal safely. However it’s important to check local laws as some areas regulate trapping skunks and relocation due to the risk of rabies and other diseases, and there are rules as to how far away you can release them.
How to Prevent Future Skunk Infestations
Block Entry Points
After removing the skunks, sealing entry points is essential to prevent them from returning. Do not use chicken wire as it won’t deter skunks, instead install a strong gauge wire meshing (also called hardware cloth) buried in to the ground, secure trash bins and reinforce crawl space openings with barriers to stop future intrusions.
Eliminate Hiding Spots and Shelter
Remove woodpiles from behind the shed, trim overgrown bushes and fill burrows to deter these animals from settling on your property. Since skunks prefer dark enclosed areas keeping your yard open and well lit reduces the chances of them seeking shelter.
Long Term Skunk Control
Ongoing Maintenance and Monitoring
Once you’ve evicted the skunks from your property, it’s important to take steps to prevent them from returning. Start by sealing all entry points, holes and burrows under sheds, decks and other structures. This will make it difficult for skunks to re-enter and establish new dens.
Removing attractants is another step. Make sure pet food, bird seed and trash are stored securely and not left out in the open. Skunks are opportunistic eaters and eliminating their food sources can deter them from coming back. Using natural repellents like apple cider vinegar, ammonia, or hot pepper spray can also keep skunks away. We recommend that you investigate or read up on predator urine, and how it’s obtained, before purchasing that product.
Installing fencing around your property can provide an extra layer of protection. Make sure the fencing is buried a few inches into the ground to prevent skunks from digging underneath. Monitor your property for signs of skunk activity, digging, burrowing and droppings. Early detection can help you address potential problems before they become major. If you are overwhelmed by skunks and you need removal help contact a wildlife control professional. They can provide guidance and long term solutions to keep your property skunk free. Follow these tips to keep your property skunk free and breathe easy.
When to Call Wildlife Control
When You Need Professional Help
If you see multiple skunks on your property, persistent hole digging or a smell that won’t go away it’s time to call wildlife control. A skunk infestation can quickly get out of hand especially if a mother skunk has created a den and has babies, she will spray to defend them.
Humane Skunk Removal Services
Our affordable wildlife control experts in Thornhill use humane techniques and methods to remove skunks while keeping other wildlife and your pets safe. They can also provide long term solutions to prevent future infestations.
Conclusion
Skunks under a house can be a pain, but with the right skunk removal techniques, you can get rid of skunks safely and effectively. By removing attractants, using natural repellents and sealing entry points you can deter skunks from coming back. If the problem persists, professional wildlife control services offer the safest and most effective long-term solutions.
