Dogs
How to Keep Skunks Away From Your Property
Chances are that if you are wondering how to keep skunks away from your property, you have seen a few around. Or, maybe you have had to endure their scent in the evening.
Although there are a few people who don't mind skunks on their property, most of us don't want them hanging around! If you would like to get rid of the skunks that seem to be making themselves at home, there are some things you can do. A little prevention and yard maintenance can go a long way. Here are some things you can do:
Things You Will Need
wire or some other material to secure openings to your porch or patio
Step 1
Eliminate all possible entrance points that would allow a skunk to gain entrance to the area under your home. You would be surprised at how small of an opening a skunk can get through.
Skunks, for whatever reason, love to live under front porches. They also love to take up residence under your back patio. If you have suspected that there may be a skunk under you home, you are probably right.
If you want to be sure that the skunk is not under your home before securing it, you can call a local exterminator.
Step 2
Feed your pets indoors. Even an empty dog dish can attract skunks. If you must feed your dog or cat outside, make sure to pick up the bowl when they are done eating. You also want to be sure that they have not allowed any of their food to fall outside of the bowl. Skunks are very opportunistic animals. If they find an easy source for food, they will be back.
Step 3
Make sure you keep all weeds and tall grass mowed. You want to make sure that a skunk feels uncomfortable on your property. Tall grass allows skunks to move about undetected. They will feel a lot less comfortable on your property if they can not move about without being seen.
Step 4
Make sure you have a quality trash can that will remain closed when it is tipped over. Also, be sure that your entire family is aware of the skunk problem. Everyone will need to be diligent when emptying the trash to the outside receptacle. Ensure that all trash makes it inside of the trash bin. Any trash on the ground will pique the curiosity of skunks.
Step 5
Take a walk around your property. Is there an opening to a garage or shed that may have invited a skunk? Skunks will also make themselves at home in wood or rock piles. Is there an opening under a shed or garage? Try to locate and secure any possible hiding places. Soon, your yard will not be as appealing as another yard and the skunks will leave.
When trying to figure out how to keep skunks away from your property, it takes effort. Once you have everything taken care of and well-maintained, skunks will generally find a more welcoming place to live.
Tips & Warnings
If you find yourself face-to-face with a skunk, simply back away quietly. Skunks are generally not aggressive. They spray as a defense when they feel threatened. A skunk that is aggressive toward you or your pets may be rabid. Proceed with caution.
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Dogs