How to Remove a Skunk from Your Property

Skunks are notorious for their potent smell, but they’re also known for causing property damage by digging under decks, sheds, or foundations. If you’ve noticed the telltale signs of a skunk — musky odor, small holes in your yard, or sightings around dusk and dawn, skunk removal montreal is a company specialize in these services because it’s important to act quickly but carefully. Here’s how to humanely and effectively remove a skunk from your property.

1. Identify the Problem

First, confirm that the animal you’re dealing with is a skunk. Look for signs like:

• A strong, musky odor

• Cone-shaped holes in your lawn from digging for grubs

• Skunk droppings (which are similar in size to cat feces and may contain insect parts)

• Tracks with five toes and claw marks

Skunks are nocturnal and typically active from dusk to dawn. You may even spot them waddling around at night if you’re watching closely.

2. Remove Attractants

Skunks are often drawn to easy food sources or shelter. Eliminate these to make your property less inviting:

• Secure garbage cans with tight lids

• Don’t leave pet food outside

• Clean up fruit that has fallen from trees

• Seal compost bins properly

• Close off crawl spaces under decks, sheds, and porches

Reducing food and shelter access is often enough to encourage a skunk to move on.

3. Use Light and Sound as Deterrents

Skunks prefer dark, quiet places. Bright lights or loud noises can disturb them enough to leave:

• Install motion-activated floodlights around potential skunk hideouts

• Use a radio tuned to a talk station and play it near the skunk’s den at night

Leave the lights or sound running for a few nights in a row to disrupt their routine.

4. Apply Natural Repellents

There are several non-toxic repellents you can try around areas skunks are frequenting:

• Ammonia-soaked rags placed near the den

• Citrus peels, which skunks dislike

• Commercial skunk repellents made from predator urine or other deterrent scents

Refresh these repellents regularly until the skunk leaves.

5. Block Off Entry Points (After the Skunk Leaves)

Once you’re confident the skunk has vacated, it’s crucial to seal the area to prevent a return:

• Cover holes with hardware cloth or wire mesh

• Dig the barrier at least 12 inches deep and bend it outward to stop burrowing

• Repair broken vents, screens, or openings in foundations

If you’re unsure whether a skunk is still present, lightly block the entrance with newspaper or straw and check if it’s disturbed overnight.

6. Consider Live Trapping (With Caution)

Live traps can be effective but come with risks:

• Check local laws first; trapping wildlife may require a permit in your area

• Use bait like canned fish or peanut butter

• Cover the trap with a cloth to reduce the chance of getting sprayed

• Call a professional to safely relocate the skunk if caught

Never attempt to relocate a skunk far from its home yourself—it’s stressful for the animal and may be illegal.

7. Call a Professional

If you’re dealing with a persistent skunk or don’t feel comfortable handling it yourself, contact a wildlife control expert. They’ll assess the situation and use humane removal techniques while ensuring local regulations are followed.