Whether you live in the suburbs or out in the country, you’re bound to cross paths with America’s smelliest animal: the skunk. Thankfully, skunks will usually leave you alone if you follow these simple tips.
Skunk Behavior and Prevention
Though the neighborhood dogs might think otherwise, skunks are extremely timid and non-aggressive—especially toward humans. Skunks would much rather avoid human activity while they search for food, which they usually do at night. As a result, skunks will do everything they can to escape a confrontation before spraying.
You can minimize skunk encounters by limiting their food sources around your property. Make sure your trash cans have secure lids and keep bird feeders (or, more accurately, bird feed) and fruit trees/plants at a safe distance from your home.
What to Do During a Skunk Encounter
Even if you and the local skunk try your best to avoid one another, you can still accidentally cross paths. If the skunk is cornered or trapped, it will give you several warning signs before resorting to spraying, such as a series of ground stomps or fake charges.
In any case, if you find yourself near a skunk, your best bet always is to run in the opposite direction—especially if the skunk already has its tail in the air!
Removing Skunk Smells
If you, a family member, or a pet is unlucky enough to be sprayed, think twice before reaching for the tomato juice; skunk researchers found that the best skunk deodorizer is one quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide mixed with half a cup of baking soda and a tablespoon of dish soap. Unlike tomato juice, this solution deodorizes the skunk spray instead of simply “disguising” it.
How to Get Rid of Skunks
In some cases, skunks can gain access to your home or property, sometimes nesting in crawlspaces or underneath porches. If you find skunks or baby skunks nesting around your home, call an animal control professional before taking matters into your own hands.
For more information on our skunk removal and wildlife control services, call our team at 310-551-0901.