Skunks can be a nasty problem for any homeowner, in more ways than one. While having a raccoon around your home can be a problem, a skunk can really stink. Deterring skunks away from your home is important, but it is important to do it in a way that doesn’t get you sprayed.
Do Skunk Repellents Work?
Skunk repellents don’t always get the job done, and often require multiple reapplications to keep the animals away. Overall, repellants will only keep deterring skunks so long as you keep using the product. And some skunks may grow accustomed to it over time.
Deterring Skunks from Your Garden
Skunks can be a nuisance to gardens, as they eat fruits, berries, and vegetables. They can also tear up lawns and gardens to find grubs and various insects. Certain plants may help reduce skunk activity in your garden. Skunks do not like the leaves of summer squash plants, as they can be irritating to them. Daffodils are lovely flowers that are toxic to skunks and many other animals.
Deterring Skunks From Garbage Cans
Skunks love to eat from your trash cans. They can claw through cheaper plastic bins, and can knock all but the heaviest cans over. Secure trash cans can be helpful in deterring skunks. Animal-proof trash cans with locking lids are key to keeping these smelly critters away. For added protection, tie your cans to your fence or side of the house to prevent animals from knocking them over.
Are Dogs Good at Deterring Skunks?
Truthfully, you should be more worried about your dog getting sprayed than actually keeping a skunk away. Skunks will spray as a defense mechanism when they feel threatened. This means they can spray at a dog who is barking at them. Skunks may also spray when startled, so they can smell up your yard while getting barked at from the window. Never leave your dog outside unattended, and always keep your dog on a leash when it is not inside your home.
Professional Skunk Removal
Skunks can be a real nuisance, and most methods for deterring skunks don’t work all the time. Professional, humane removal is an effective solution to your skunk problem. We specialize in the humane removal and relocation of wild animals. Let NY/NJ Wildlife Removal Inc. handle your skunk problem. Our expert team can even provide cleaning and repair services for areas of your property damaged by skunks.