DIY Skunk Removal Mistakes to Avoid: Leave it to the Pros

Okay, we’ll admit that skunks are cute. With their inquisitive faces and distinctive black and white markings, they seem like adorable critters from afar, but trust us- they’re better off away from your property. Not only is their spray pretty pungent, but skunks can burrow under your home during baby season and damage both your electrical and plumbing. 

If you’ve got skunks around, you’re likely Googling ‘DIY skunk removal.’ While there are literally dozens of tips and tricks, few -if any- of them are as effective as humane wildlife removal. In this blog, we’ll explore the common mistakes associated with DIY skunk removal and highlight the importance of hiring professionals like Bad Company Wildlife Eviction to handle these situations safely and effectively.

How Do You Know You’ve Got a Skunk Problem?

You’ve seen a skunk or two on your front lawn, but they could simply be passing through. How can you tell that you’ve got an infestation and not some random visitor?

• Unmistakable Odour: The most obvious sign of a skunk’s presence is the strong, pungent smell of their spray. If you notice a persistent, foul odour around your property, particularly during the evening or night, it could indicate that skunks are nearby.
• Digging and Torn Up Lawns: Skunks are omnivores that dig in search of insects, grubs, and small animals. If you observe shallow holes or patches of upturned soil on your lawn or garden, it could be a sign of skunks foraging for food.
• Damage to Structures: Skunks often seek shelter under structures like sheds, decks, and porches. Look for signs of damage, such as torn insulation, holes, or openings around these areas that might serve as den entrances.
• Pet Behaviour: If your pets are displaying heightened curiosity, barking, or growling at specific areas, it could be an indication of skunk presence. Pets are naturally drawn to the scent and movement of skunks.
• Nocturnal Activity: Skunks are nocturnal creatures, meaning they’re most active during the night. If you notice rustling or movement around your property after sunset, it could be a sign of skunks foraging or searching for shelter.
• Strange Noises: Skunks can produce a range of vocalizations, including hisses, grunts, and even screeches. If you hear unusual noises coming from under structures or bushes, it’s worth investigating.
• Elevated Scratching Sounds: Skunks may create scratching or digging noises when attempting to access or exit their dens. If you hear these sounds beneath your property, it’s a good indication that skunks are present.

If you suspect a skunk problem based on these signs, exercise caution and avoid direct contact. Skunks are known carriers of diseases like rabies, so you should contact humane wildlife removal services like Bad Company Wildlife Eviction to ensure safe, humane, and effective removal from your property.

Mistake #1: Insufficient Knowledge of Skunk Behavior

DIY websites are big on information but low on backstory. They’ll present suggestions for DIY skunk removal but when you don’t really understand why these animals behave the way they do, these ideas probably won’t work.

Skunks may be famous for their iconic black and white appearance and infamous spray, but they have complex behaviors that extend beyond these superficial traits. Approaching skunks without a solid understanding of their habits, instincts, and communication signals can lead to risky and potentially aromatic encounters.

Skunks are naturally timid creatures that use a series of warning signs to communicate their discomfort or distress. They include stamping their feet, raising their tails, and arching their backs. Unfortunately, individuals attempting DIY skunk removal might misinterpret these signs or fail to recognize them altogether. This can inadvertently escalate the situation, causing skunks to feel threatened and respond aggressively.

Moreover, skunks have specific territories and habits, including nesting sites, feeding areas, and travel routes. Without the knowledge of these factors, homeowners attempting DIY removal might inadvertently disrupt the skunks’ natural patterns, leading to stress and disarray. This can exacerbate the situation and potentially cause skunks to establish dens closer to human living spaces, increasing the risk of unwanted interactions.

Mistake #2: Separating Mom From Babies

Skunk mothers establish dens in hidden or sheltered areas to protect their young, and these locations can be difficult to spot. Without proper knowledge, homeowners may block access to the den site while attempting DIY skunk removal, separating the mother from her offspring and potentially leading to tragedy. 

At Bad Company Wildlife Eviction, our method ensures that mom and babies leave your property together. We start by inspecting your home and outbuildings and identifying entry points. If we find baby skunks, we put them into a heated, insulated box near a one-way door. Once the mother believes it is safe to do so, she typically returns and moves her babies one by one to their cozy new hideout.

Once the babies are cleared out, we install a one-way exit at the identified point of entry. This allows the skunks to exit their den safely while preventing them from re-entering. We also set up preventative screening to fortify the area around sheds, decks, or porches. Once enough time passes, we remove the one-way exit and permanently seal the entry point- in case another skunk gets ideas!

Mistake #3: Inadequate Safety Precautions

The threat of getting sprayed by a skunk is not just an old wives’ tale—it’s a very real and pungent experience. DIY enthusiasts who approach these animals without the proper protective gear might find themselves on the receiving end of a skunk’s defense mechanism. The noxious spray can cause temporary blindness, nausea, and a lingering stench that’s difficult to eliminate. You might end up spending a lot of nights on the porch or sofa- not fun at all.

Mistake #4: Using Traps

Using traps as a method to get rid of skunks might seem like a straightforward solution, but it can be both ineffective and dangerous for the animals. Here’s why:

• Ineffectiveness: Skunks are intelligent creatures and can quickly learn to avoid traps if they perceive them as a threat. DIY traps often lack the sophistication needed to successfully capture skunks. 
• Stress and Agitation: Trapping a skunk can lead to significant stress for the animal. When confined, skunks become anxious and agitated, which can lead to unintended consequences. They may injure themselves while attempting to escape, causing harm or even death. 
• Separation of Families: This one ties closely to Mistake #2. Skunks are often found in family units, with mothers raising their young in a den. Trapping a mother skunk can lead to the separation of the mother from her babies, leaving the young vulnerable and without proper care. This can result in the suffering and potential death of the baby skunks.

In contrast, Bad Company Wildlife Eviction uses humane techniques to evict skunks safely. We understand skunk behavior, employ methods that minimize stress and harm, and adhere to ethical and legal standards. If you’re facing a skunk problem, it’s best to leave the removal to those with the knowledge and experience to ensure both your safety and the well-being of these animals.

Mistake #5: Risking Property Damage

Skunks are not just capable of emitting foul odours; they can also cause significant damage to property. Digging under decks, porches, and sheds, they create den sites that can weaken structures and lead to costly repairs. DIY attempts to remove skunks often involve ineffective methods that can worsen the damage. By entrusting the task to experts, homeowners can prevent unnecessary property destruction and avoid the associated expenses.DIY Skunk Removal Doesn’t Work: Try Humane Wildlife Removal Instead!

DIY skunk removal might seem like a tempting (and cheap) option, but the potential risks and pitfalls far outweigh any perceived benefits. The best approach to dealing with a skunk infestation is to leave it to the professionals. 

At Bad Company Wildlife Eviction, we have the experience, expertise, and equipment necessary to remove skunks safely, humanely, and effectively. Don’t let the allure of DIY solutions lead you into a skunk-scented nightmare—make a wise choice and call in the experts to restore peace to your home and property. To learn more or schedule an estimate for removal, contact us today at 1-855-937-0418.