Skunks Identification & Prevention

What are skunks?

Skunks are mammals that belong to the scientific family of Mephitidae. They are easily recognizable thanks to their striped warning coloration, which is typically black fur with white stripes, though brown fur and cream or orangeish stripes have also been noted on different species of skunks. Skunks are most notable for the liquid that they spray at threats and predators; this liquid has a very strong, unpleasant rotten egg scent that can linger for days, weeks, or even months when untreated.

Local pest control in Southern Maryland for your property is essential if you want to ensure these wildlife animals are kept far away from your home or business, and that you don’t accidentally fall victim to a stinky skunk spray.

Are skunks dangerous?

The odor of skunk spray is bad enough, and while this is an unpleasant thing to encounter, it’s not necessarily the most dangerous thing about a skunk. Skunks, like many other wild animals, will bite and scratch if they feel they are being threatened. Dangers associated with being attacked by a skunk include infections and the transmission of serious illnesses, such as rabies, distemper, and salmonellosis.

Additionally, certain sensitive individuals may actually be allergic to skunk spray, and encountering a skunk spray may trigger breathing issues or a severe allergic reaction like anaphylaxis.

Pest control skunk removal is essential to avoid the dangers this pest brings.

Why do I have a skunk problem?

Skunks are opportunists, as are many wildlife animals that find their way to human properties, and these pests will do their best to scavenge food around your property. Pet food that is left outside, unguarded trash cans and compost piles, and chicken coops are all prime attractants for hungry skunks. Removing factors that attract this pest can help you prevent a skunk problem from occurring.

Where will I find skunks?

Skunks prefer to burrow in dark, secluded spaces, and you will find skunks hiding underneath buildings, in crawl spaces, in hollow tree trunks, and underneath porches or concrete slabs. Occasionally, you may find skunks in garages, dumpsters, or chicken coops, as they nest close to food sources. Professional inspection is the safest way to find skunk hiding spots without putting yourself too close to this pest.

How do I get rid of skunks?

Controlling nuisance skunks all alone is not something you want to undertake, especially when you consider the risks of being bitten, scratched, or sprayed by a skunk. Instead, let our team at Mike’s Pest, Termite and Wildlife Control help you with skunk control that eliminates this pest from your property and protects those you care about.

With our reliable skunk control service, you won’t need to worry about accidentally running into this pest or one of your pets encountering a skunk and bringing unpleasant skunk spray odors into your property.

How can I prevent skunks in the future?

Prevent skunks in the future by following our expert tips below:

Fill possible skunk dens around your property, being careful to avoid any areas that you suspect skunks are currently living in.

Remove access to outdoor pet food to stop it from attracting hungry skunks.

Utilize trash cans with lockable or tight-fitting lids to prevent pests from scavenging in these areas.

Consider using predator urine (dog or coyote works best) around the perimeter of your yard to deter skunks from entering your property; they hate the scent.

Reach out to Mike’s Pest, Termite and Wildlife Control today for more information on our residential pest control services in Southern Maryland, or for help removing skunks from your property.

Call us today to learn more about professional Wildlife Control in Southern Maryland for skunks.