What To Do If You Encounter A Skunk In Your Yard

Skunks are fascinating creatures that are often found in residential areas. They are omnivores, and their diet consists of insects, small animals, fruits, and vegetables. While they may seem cute from afar, they can be quite a nuisance if they end up in your yard. Skunks are known for the pungent odor that they emit when they feel threatened or scared. This odor is not only unpleasant, but it can also cause eye and skin irritation. So, what should you do if you encounter a skunk in your yard? Here are a few tips.

Remain Calm

The first thing you should do when you spot a skunk in your yard is to remain calm. The skunk will likely leave alone if you remain calm and keep your distance. Skunks are not aggressive animals and will not attack you unless threatened or cornered.

Keep Your Distance

Skunks have poor eyesight, but they have an excellent sense of smell. Therefore, keeping your distance and avoiding approaching the skunk is important. If you get too close to a skunk, it may feel threatened and spray you with its pungent odor. If you have pets, keep them indoors until the skunk leaves.

Identify The Reason For The Skunk’s Presence

Skunks are attracted to food sources such as garbage cans, bird feeders, and pet food. If you have any of these items in your yard, it is important to remove them immediately. Skunks may also be attracted to potential den sites such as woodpiles, brush piles, and underdecks. If you have any of these items in your yard, it is also important to remove them.

Use Repellents

There are a few natural repellents that you can use to keep skunks away from your yard. One of the most effective repellents is ammonia. Skunks hate the smell of ammonia, and it can be used to deter them from entering your yard. You can soak rags in ammonia and place them around the perimeter of your yard. You can also use citrus peels or cayenne pepper as natural repellents.

Call A Professional

If you cannot get rid of the skunk on your own or think there may be a family of skunks living in your yard, it is best to call a professional. Wildlife removal experts have the knowledge and equipment to safely remove skunks from your yard without causing harm to the animal.

Prevent Future Encounters

The best way to prevent skunks from entering your yard is to make it less attractive to them. This can be done by removing potential food sources and den sites. You can also install motion-activated lights and sprinklers to deter skunks from entering your yard at night.

Conclusion

Encountering a skunk in your yard can be a daunting experience, but it is important to remain calm and keep your distance. Identify the reason for the skunk’s presence and use natural repellents to keep them away. If you cannot eliminate the skunk alone, it is best to call a professional. Finally, prevent future encounters by making your yard less attractive to skunks. By following these tips, you can safely and effectively deal with skunks in your yard.