Q&A for How to Get a Skunk to Leave

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  • Question
    How do you trap a skunk without them spraying?
    Chris Parker
    Founder, Parker Eco Pest Control
    Chris Parker is the Founder of Parker Eco Pest Control, a sustainable pest control service in Seattle, Washington. Since 2016, Chris has been specializing in Integrated Pest Management and doesn’t use any chemicals for pest removal. He offers removal services for ants, rodents, fleas, spiders, wasps, and more. Chris is a certified Commercial Pesticide Applicator in Washington State and received his bachelor’s from the University of Washington.
    Founder, Parker Eco Pest Control
    Expert Answer
    The chance of you getting sprayed probably isn't that high unless you threaten him or her. Since skunks are considered wildlife, you need a trappers license if you want someone to go out there and trap them.
  • Question
    If I encounter a skunk and shine a flashlight on it, will it attack or spray me?
    Community Answer
    I've shone my flashlight on a skunk before. It doesn't seem to make the skunk do anything apart from looking at me for a second before continuing its business.
  • Question
    How do I know exactly where the skunk is?
    Community Answer
    I have had skunks take up residence off and on over many years. You first may notice the faint skunky odor, especially around any woodpiles or outdoor sheds. Then you may notice a small burrow under it, generally only one hole. They stay under the shed during the day and come out at night to eat grubs, night crawlers, fallen fruit, etc. Before you try to plug the hole, make sure it is out of its den. I set up a wildlife infrared camera ($60 to $100 on Amazon) to observe it for a few days to learn its habits. When it was out of the hole, I plugged it by digging around the burrow entrance and extending a trench from side to side, then filled it with premix cement.
  • Question
    Can a skunk climb a wood fence?
    Community Answer
    Some skunks can climb wooden fences.
  • Question
    How can I get baby skunks to come out from under a porch if I have their mother in a live trap?
    Community Answer
    Carefully open the deck. Remove a few boards. Keep the mother nearby. They may crawl out to her due to hunger. After the safe removal of your fuzzy friends, rebuild the deck.
  • Question
    I have two small skunks that are around during the day. Afraid to let my dog out. What can I do ?
    Dahlia Grace
    Community Answer
    Skunks that are out during the day most likely have rabies and you should call animal control before letting your dog out.
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