Since skunks are a nocturnal species, they spend their nights foraging for food. During the day, they sleep in underground burrows. However, they may also live under houses, sheds or decks. Skunks are well-known for their defensive tactics. When they feel threatened, they lift their tail to discharge an odorous liquid. This bad smell is the most common complaint that people have about skunks. Therefore, they are usually classified as a pest.

Skunk Removal

Besides the foul odor, skunks can be a nuisance because they dig in the garbage. They also eat food out of gardens. If someone has this pest problem at their home, then they should call skunk removal experts. The specialists will come to remove the animals. With the right materials, anyone can trap a skunk. However, it is best to hire a professional. Skunks can be dangerous, so it is wise to avoid the risks.

Skunk Trapping & Relocation

Trapping is the best way to get a skunk out of a person’s yard. It is safer than trying to kill the skunk. In order to trap one, invest in a cage that is at least 12 inches tall. Not only that, but the cage must be 30 inches in length. The next thing to do is set out bait. Wet cat food usually works best, but it can also attract domesticated animals. Another option is to use marshmallows because they won’t entice cats.

Skunk Cage

Set the trap in an area where the skunk frequents. For instance, the trap can be placed under the deck. It can also be set in the middle of the lawn. Once a skunk has been caught, place a cloth over the cage to keep it from spraying. While trapping is an effective tool for skunk removal, specialists also take time to educate customers about long-term solutions. The most important solution includes habit modification. For example, improving neighborhood sanitation is a humane way to manage skunks.

Once a skunk has been trapped, it needs to be relocated. Put the skunk in the trunk of your vehicle. Throughout this process, make sure to keep the cloth over the cage. The skunk will not spray when it is unable to see. For this skunk removal step, take it at least five miles from the property. Make sure to check state laws before relocating a skunk. In some states, it is illegal to relocate an animal.

Professionals are also willing to move the skunks. This is beneficial for those who live in a state that has specific relocation laws. Not only that, but the property owner does not have to worry about getting sprayed. Skunk removal requires patience and caution. If the animal is not moved at least five miles away, then it may come back.

Use extreme caution when performing a skunk removal task. Since skunks are one the primary carriers of rabies, it can be a risky job. If someone gets bit by a skunk, then they need to seek emergency medical treatment. Besides rabies, skunks also spread canine distemper. Dogs can get this fatal disease when they come into contact with a skunk’s bodily secretions. Skunks also carry ticks, fleas and mites around a home.

Skunk Spray & Skunk Removal

Skunk Spray

Spraying is another risk of skunk removal. They can spray their smell from up to 15 feet away. In order to avoid this hazard, it is important to know the signs. The first thing that an agitated skunk does is raise its tail. This is a warning that tells people to back off. If it starts to stomp at the ground, then make sure to move away. Baby skunks are also risky because they can prematurely spray. If you’re accidentally sprayed while attempting a skunk removal, be sure to check out our article on how to get rid of skunk smell.