Skunk Removal

One of Michigan's most familiar residents is the skunk. Their pungent odor fills our cars as we pass, and the feeling of dread is universal as we see the iconic black-and-white waddle cross our paths in the yard.

Habitat

Skunks enjoy low structures to burrow under. Porch slabs, decks and fallen trees are all favorites. Skunks will also move into old groundhog burrows, another reason for quick, proper removal of groundhogs.

Damage

The number one damage caused by skunks is their offensive odor. A skunk can spray up to 10 feet, and be smelled up to one and a half miles away! The chemical makeup of their spray binds so readily and tightly to materials making disposal of sprayed objects one of the only ways to fully rid your yard of the scent.

Skunks also cause damage to landscaping and yards due to digging for grubs. Not as extensive as groundhog mounds, the holes left by skunks still pose a threat of physical harm by making the ground uneven.

Skunks are also drawn to bird seed under feeders, and may cause damage to feeders when trying to scavenge more food.
Skunk in window well
Signs of skunk digging/grubbing

How Many Skunks Do I Have?

Skunks mate in the spring and female skunks can begin breeding in their second summer. On average, four to six babies are birthed per litter.

Baby skunks can also spray and are unpredictable resulting sporadic bouts of their sulfuric scent wafting through your home and yard.

Removal

Skunks can be trapped for removal by setting up traps on the property where the skunks have taken up residence or on the paths they like to travel. Though it is possible to trap the skunk, it is impossible to trap their scent. When a skunk is trapped, it will likely spray out of fear so it is best if traps are set as far from your home as possible.

Whatever else, DO NOT SHOOT A SKUNK! Shooting a skunk will definitely result in a smelly situation.

Prevention

The best option for preventing skunks from taking up residence on your property is to make your yard inhospitable for them. Fill in old groundhog burrows, remove low-lying debris, properly seal off under decks and porches, and keep feeders out of their reach.

Preventing skunks from making your home theirs will also save on costly removal of dead skunks from under decks after the spring thaw, and the costly repairs to follow.
Contact Dave at Anytime Animal Control to discuss skunk prevention and removal as soon as you notice their signs.

Call Dave at Anytime Animal Control LLC today (248) 895-2687