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Skunks are black and white mammals that are primarily known for their very strong-smelling defense mechanism. While these wild animals may not be dangerous to humans per se, they should still be considered pests.

Adult striped skunks can weigh up to 5 kg and usually measure between 50 and 80 cm in length. They usually live in forests, clearings and other sheltered habitats, but they can sometimes get into yards, sheds and basements.

If you notice a skunk near your home or damage to your property that appears to be caused by a fairly large animal, you will need to take steps to get rid of it. Ultrasonic devices, cage traps and predator urine are a few effective ways to get rid of skunks. Read on for more!

General information about skunks

For the most part, skunks are solitary, non-aggressive animals. However, when threatened, they will hiss and use their formidable weapon—a foul-smelling spray. The oily, yellowish liquid gives off a nauseating odour that can last for quite some time.

Skunks have adapted quite well to urban life, and aren’t afraid to go through your garbage, attack your chicken coop and dig holes in your yard.

Skunks are protected by law in Quebec, which means that they can’t be killed or harmed. If a skunk is causing damage on your property, contact a specialized exterminator without delay. Professionals will be able to capture the creature quickly and dispose of it in accordance with regulations.

Which spots on a property are likely to attract skunks?

If you have fruit trees in your yard, you will likely attract skunks and other animals who will feast on the fruit that falls to the ground. If you want to keep skunks out of your yard, remember to clean up fallen fruit and leaves regularly.

Skunks are very poor climbers, so there’s little chance of finding one in the middle of your living room. However, they might take up residence under your deck, crawl space or shed. These sheltered spots are ideal places for skunks to raise their young in summer and go dormant in winter.

Finally, skunks may be attracted by your garbage. If your trash can is open and overflowing, you’re providing skunks and raccoons with gourmet self-serve meals. Keep your garbage tidy and well-sealed to avoid attracting them.

 

Do you have a question? Take advantage of a free consultation with our experts!

 

How to get rid of skunks

If a skunk has made its way onto your property, it won’t be easy to catch. Skunks usually only come out early in the morning or at nightfall, and their burrows can be difficult to find, so it can be a challenge to figure out where the animals are coming from.

If you want to keep things simple and save time, contact an expert skunk catcher. They will be able to use a variety of techniques to bait the skunk, and you’ll avoid having to approach the animal, which might have rabies.

Otherwise, there are several methods you can use to catch or repel skunks yourself.

Technology and man-made solutions

There are a variety of man-made solutions for capturing and repelling skunks. Let’s take a look at three of the options.

Cage traps

A medium-sized cage trap is one of the most effective methods for catching and transporting skunks.

The trap is baited with eggs, fruit or nuts, and once the skunk goes in, it closes without harming the animal. The right size trap will be a tight fit that prevents the skunk from lifting its tail, rendering it unable to use its spray.

Once you have successfully captured the skunk, you’ll need to release it several kilometres away from your home. Make sure to choose a natural habitat where the animal is likely to thrive. You can contact your local SPCA for more information.

Ultrasonic devices

Ultrasonic devices can be effective at repelling skunks and other animals such as racoons, birds, rats and mice.

They can also keep neighbourhood cats and dogs off your property without harming them. However, they might not be a good option if you have pets of your own.

Motion sensors

Like ultrasonic devices, you can install motion sensor lights on your property to scare animals away. Skunks aren’t fans of bright light and will tend to stay away from it.

Motion-activated sprinklers are also available.

Natural repellents

While high-tech solutions are undoubtedly useful when it comes to repelling skunks, there are natural repellents that can be just as effective. Let’s take a look at a few of the options.

Human hair

One natural method for keeping skunks away is to place human hair in your yard and near your garbage. Skunks hate the texture and smell of hair and will usually stay away from it. If you put some hair in your garden, it can also act as fertilizer, which is an added bonus!

Predator urine

Try sprinkling urine from coyotes or other predators around your yard to scare skunks away. Predator urine can be purchased in certain pet stores, hardware stores and online.

For more information, contact an experienced exterminator who will be able to advise you on the best skunk repellents.

Who to call to get rid of skunks

As stated above, skunks can cause damage and foul smells if they get onto your property. There are ways to catch and repel skunks yourself, but the animals can sometimes be rabid, so handling them entails a certain amount of risk.

If you want to get rid of skunks quickly and safely, contact the experts at Elite Pest Control. They have the techniques and expertise needed to solve your pest problems for good.

Pascal Rock
Pascal Rock  
Director, Elite Pest Control
Founder and mainstay of Elite Pest Control, Pascal Rock has embodied expertise and dedication for over a decade. His training, acquired with expert mentors in extermination and pest decontamination, has shaped an outstanding professional. Under his leadership, a team of six seasoned technicians deploys the very best pest control strategies. Together, they ensure the peace of mind and safety of residents and professionals from Montreal to Quebec City, by offering fast, effective interventions, available at all times.