Skunks are common in many neighbourhoods, and spotting one in your yard doesn’t necessarily mean there’s a problem. Skunks are generally shy animals that prefer to avoid confrontation, but they will defend themselves if they feel cornered or startled.
Knowing how to respond calmly and safely can help prevent stress for both you and the animal. Taking a few thoughtful steps can encourage the skunk to move along on its own.
This article is for general knowledge only and is based on information from wildlife and pest control organisations. Every situation is different, so consider contacting local animal services if you are unsure how to proceed. Images are for illustrative purposes only.
Remove Potential Food Sources
Skunks visit yards primarily because they’re searching for an easy meal. Pet food left outside, unsecured garbage bins, and fallen fruit from trees are like a buffet invitation. Once they find food, they’ll keep coming back for more.
Secure your garbage cans with tight lids or store them in a garage or shed. Bring pet dishes inside after feeding time, and clean up any birdseed that falls beneath feeders. Pick up fallen fruit regularly and consider removing compost piles that might attract insects.
Eliminating these temptations discourages repeat visits.
Turn On Outdoor Lights
Skunks are nocturnal creatures that prefer to forage under the cover of darkness. Bright lights make them uncomfortable and encourage them to seek shelter elsewhere. Motion-activated lights work particularly well because they startle the animal without requiring you to go outside.
Install lights near potential entry points like sheds, decks, and woodpiles. The sudden illumination often sends skunks scurrying away quickly. This method is humane and doesn’t harm the animal in any way.
Keeping your yard well-lit during evening hours can prevent future visits as well.
Block Access To Hiding Spots
Skunks love to den in dark, enclosed spaces like the area beneath your porch, deck, or shed. If they find a cozy spot, they might decide to stay and raise a family. Preventing access to these areas is crucial for keeping them away long term.
Inspect your property for gaps or openings and seal them with sturdy wire mesh or hardware cloth. Make sure the barrier extends at least 30 centimetres below ground to prevent digging. Wait until you’re certain no animals are inside before sealing entrances.
This simple step protects your property effectively.
Use Natural Deterrents
Certain smells are particularly offensive to skunks and can encourage them to move along. Ammonia-soaked rags placed near den sites mimic predator urine and signal danger. Citrus peels, cayenne pepper, and mothballs also work as mild repellents when scattered around your property.
Reapply these deterrents regularly, especially after rain, to maintain their effectiveness. While not foolproof, they can make your yard less appealing when combined with other methods. Always use these substances safely, keeping them away from pets and children.
Natural solutions offer a gentle first line of defense.
Avoid Direct Confrontation
Never try to chase, corner, or capture a skunk yourself. When threatened, skunks will stomp their front feet, hiss, and raise their tails as warnings. If these signals are ignored, they’ll spray a foul-smelling liquid that can reach up to five metres and cause temporary blindness if it hits your eyes.
Even if the skunk seems small or non-threatening, respect its space. Attempting to shoo it away with a broom or other object will likely backfire. Let the animal leave on its own terms whenever possible.
Your patience prevents a truly unpleasant experience.
Keep Pets Indoors
Dogs and cats are naturally curious and may not recognize the danger a skunk poses. A face full of skunk spray is painful for your pet and creates a lingering odour problem for you. The smell can take weeks to fully disappear, even with special cleaning products.
If you spot a skunk, immediately bring your pets inside and keep them there until the animal has left. Check your yard before letting them out for evening bathroom breaks. Supervising outdoor time during dusk and dawn reduces the chance of unfortunate encounters.
Prevention saves everyone from misery.
Contact Wildlife Control If Needed
Sometimes a skunk refuses to leave or has established a den on your property. In these situations, calling a licensed wildlife control professional is your best option. They have the training and equipment to remove skunks safely and humanely without anyone getting sprayed.
Professionals can also identify entry points and provide exclusion services to prevent future problems. Many offer guarantees on their work and follow local regulations regarding wildlife removal. While there’s a cost involved, it’s often worth it for peace of mind.
Expert help resolves stubborn situations quickly and effectively.
