How To Get Rid Of Skunk Under My House

How to Get Rid of Skunks Fast from Your Garden and Yard

If you’ve ever encountered a skunk in your garden or yard, you know how unpleasant the experience can be. Skunks are known for their potent odor, which can linger for days on end. Furthermore, they can cause significant damage to your plants, lawn, and property. In this article, we’ll be discussing how to get rid of skunks fast and effectively.

1. Understanding Skunks

Before we dive into the details of getting rid of skunks, it’s essential to know a bit about their habits and behavior. Skunks are nocturnal animals, which means they are most active at night. They are also omnivores, which means they eat both plants and animals. Skunks are attracted to gardens and yards for several reasons, including the abundance of food and shelter that they provide.

2. Signs of Skunk Infestation

There are several signs that you may have a skunk infestation in your garden or yard. These include:

– Strong odor: Skunks are known for their distinct odor, which is caused by the spray they release when threatened.
– Digging: Skunks are burrowing animals and will dig holes in your lawn and garden in search of food.
– Circles of dead grass: Skunks can cause patches of dead grass in your lawn by digging for grubs and insects.
– Footprints: Skunks have five-toed feet and leave behind distinctive tracks in soft soil or mud.

3. Removing Food Sources

One of the most effective ways to get rid of skunks is to remove their food sources. Skunks are attracted to gardens and yards because of the abundance of food available. Therefore, removing these food sources can help deter skunks and prevent them from infesting your property.

– Secure your garbage: Skunks are attracted to garbage, so be sure to secure your trash cans with tight-fitting lids.
– Harvest your crops: Harvesting your crops as soon as they are ripe can help prevent skunks from feasting on them.
– Seal your compost bin: Skunks love to dig for compost, so be sure to seal your compost bin tightly to prevent them from getting in.

4. Using Repellents

Another effective method for getting rid of skunks is to use repellents. Skunk repellents work by creating an unpleasant scent that deters skunks from coming near your property.

– Commercial repellents: There are several commercial skunk repellents available, including sprays and granules. These repellents usually contain natural ingredients such as peppermint, cinnamon, and garlic.
– Homemade repellents: You can also make your own skunk repellent using household items such as cayenne pepper, garlic, and vinegar. Simply mix these ingredients together and spray them around your property.

5. Trapping and Relocating Skunks

If you have a severe skunk infestation, trapping and relocating them may be necessary. However, it’s essential to note that trapping and relocating skunks should only be done by professionals.

– Live traps: Live traps are the most humane way to trap skunks. These traps allow you to capture the skunk without harming it.
– Relocating skunks: Once you have trapped the skunk, you should relocate it to a nearby wooded area. However, you should only do this if it is legal in your area.

6. Keeping Skunks Out

Preventing skunks from entering your property is another effective method for getting rid of them. This involves sealing off any openings that skunks may use to enter your property.

– Seal off crawl spaces: Skunks love to burrow, so be sure to seal off any crawl spaces or gaps beneath your home.
– Seal off decks and porches: Skunks can also burrow beneath decks and porches. Be sure to seal off any gaps or openings to prevent them from getting in.
– Fencing: Finally, fencing off your property can help prevent skunks from entering. Be sure to use a sturdy fence that is at least three feet high and buried at least six inches into the ground.

7. Dealing with Skunk Spray

If you do encounter a skunk and get sprayed, don’t panic. There are several home remedies that can help remove the smell.

– Tomato juice: Contrary to popular belief, tomato juice is not an effective remedy for skunk spray. Instead, mix together one quart of hydrogen peroxide, ¼ cup of baking soda, and one tablespoon of dish soap. Apply this mixture to your skin and clothes and leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off.
– Vinegar: Another effective remedy for skunk spray is vinegar. Mix together equal parts of water and white vinegar and apply it to your skin and clothes. Leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing off.
– Professional treatment: If home remedies don’t work, you may need to seek professional treatment. A professional will have specialized equipment and products to effectively remove skunk spray.

8. FAQs

Q: How can I tell if I have a skunk infestation?
A: Signs of a skunk infestation include a strong odor, digging in your lawn and garden, circles of dead grass, and footprints.

Q: What are skunk repellents?
A: Skunk repellents are products that create an unpleasant scent that deters skunks from coming near your property.

Q: How can I remove skunk spray?
A: Home remedies such as hydrogen peroxide and vinegar can effectively remove skunk spray. If home remedies don’t work, seek professional treatment.

9. Conclusion

In conclusion, skunks can be a nuisance in your garden and yard. However, there are several effective methods for getting rid of them, including removing food sources, using repellents, trapping and relocating them, and keeping them out of your property. If you do encounter a skunk and get sprayed, don’t panic. There are several home remedies and professional treatments that can help remove the smell.