Skunk
Skunks are small mammals known for their distinctive black-and-white coloring and their notorious defense mechanism: a strong-smelling spray emitted from their scent glands. While skunks play an important role in controlling insect populations, they can become a nuisance when they invade yards, gardens, or crawl spaces.
Signs
Sounds: Low growls, hisses, or soft digging noises, typically at night.
Tracks: Small, five-toed footprints with claw marks visible in soft soil or mud.
Odor: A pungent, sulfur-like smell often indicating a nearby skunk or recent spray.
Holes: Shallow, cone-shaped holes in lawns, indicative of skunk foraging.
Droppings: Dark, tubular droppings with visible insect parts, often near feeding areas.
Nuisances
Digging up lawns and gardens while searching for grubs and insects.
Occupying crawl spaces, under decks, or sheds to create dens.
Spraying pets, humans, or areas when they feel threatened, leaving a persistent, foul odor.
Common Issues
Foul odor from skunk spray, which can linger on pets, clothing, and property for weeks.
Lawn damage from digging while foraging for insects and grubs.
Risk of spraying when skunks are startled or cornered by pets or humans.
Health risks from diseases like rabies, though rare in skunks.
Services
Inspection: Identification of dens, entry points, and signs of skunk activity.
Humane Trapping and Removal: Safe and effective live trapping to relocate skunks without harm.
Exclusion: Sealing of crawl spaces, decks, and sheds to prevent future nesting.
Odor Neutralization: Specialized cleaning and deodorization services for areas affected by skunk spray.