How to Get Rid of Skunks

Skunks are famous for spraying people with their foul-smelling defensive spray. They are also a known carrier of rabies. For these reasons, it's generally a good idea to keep them away from areas where humans live. There are many easy ways to get rid of skunks and to keep them from returning.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Keep food away from skunks. If there isn't any food available skunks will be much less likely to approach. Unfortunately, they will eat anything they find edible. This includes trash, compost piles and dog and cat food. Keep trash sealed in a trash can and put chicken wire around compost piles to keep skunks away.
2. Get rid of anything that attracts rodents. If there are rodents in the yard, skunks will follow to eat them. Rodents can be attracted by trash left in the yard, as well as fruit-bearing plants. For example, if you grow berries or other food in the yard, be sure to pick up any that falls from the plants.
3. Drain any standing water. Overturn items that hold rainwater. Standing water in a bucket, planter or other object is a great place for a skunk to drink after a long night of foraging.
4. Use floodlights. Skunks hate too much light and will avoid it if possible.
5. Seal up any areas where skunks can make a home. They love to hide under buildings and decks. If you have skunks that have made a home under a deck, storage shed or home, seal up the area. Wait until the skunk has left for the night to forage and seal up the opening. The skunk will be unable to return.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not attempt to pick up a skunk or pull it out of a hiding place. Skunks are known carriers of rabies and can transmit the disease with a bite. Plus, getting too close to a skunk can frighten them into using their spray.