The scent of a skunk is unmistakable. It’s a stench that makes your heart sink and induces panic. Though you’ve certainly smelled a skunk, it’s unlikely that you’ve spotted one. Skunks are nocturnal creatures who prefer to keep to themselves. Nightly whiffs of that distinctive odour may mean you need skunk removal in Ajax. Hopefully, you never find yourself facing the business end of a skunk. But if you do, here are three facts about skunk spray to remember.

It’s in Limited Supply

Many people believe that skunks walk around spraying everyone and everything at all times. But that’s not true at all. Skunks aren’t evil creatures. They’d prefer not to spray you! Skunks will only spray as a last resort when they feel threatened. These striped critters can deplete that liquid with a few quick spritzes. Skunk bodies are constantly replenishing their stink power, but results aren’t immediate. Once their reserves are empty, it can take over a week to fill the tank. Without that stinky spray, skunks have no defence against predators. To prevent this potentially deadly scenario, skunks will start with a few warning signs.

When first faced with a potential threat, skunks will hiss, arch their backs and stomp. In skunk language, this little song-and-dance translates to, “Back off, or I’ll ruin your day.” Skunks can turn their bodies into a “U” shape. This action allows them to aim their tails while zeroing in on their target. If you see that motion, it’s time to run. Their spray can reach up to 10 feet. If they can’t get a clear shot, they may release a mist to cover the area. Confident skunks will aim a stream directly to the face of their intended target.

It’s Flammable

If you’ve ever smelled a skunk, it has a very distinctive odour. Skunk spray is composed of chemicals, primarily thiol compounds. The most pronounced component in thiol is sulphur. Sulphur contributes its strong rotten-egg smell to the spray’s unique aroma. However, that famous skunk stench you know is likely a little stale. It may even be far away. You can smell a skunk’s noxious odour in the air for almost 2 miles!

Nearby, freshly sprayed skunk smells a bit like burning rubber. That burning smell might clue you into the fact that it’s also highly flammable. No, skunks aren’t trying to blow up their enemies; it’s a byproduct of sulphur. Whether intentional on the skunks part or not, it’s still dangerous. If a skunk has sprayed nearby, don’t light a cigarette or a fire. If skunks are burrowing near your home, stay safe, and call a professional for removal.

It Can Harm Your Eyes

The chemicals in skunk spray can cause eye irritation and temporary blindness. Though the effects aren’t usually long-lasting, they can be pretty painful. Even spray wafting in the air nearby can burn your eyes and nose.

If your beloved dog attacked a skunk and needs cleaning, wear gloves. The oils from the spray can be difficult to remove from your skin. Touching your face with contaminated fingertips can quickly burn your eyes. If you see a skunk, don’t approach it or trap it. When trapped and cornered, the skunk will feel threatened enough to give you a quick blast. Their spray is not only annoying but can be damaging. We use removal methods that prevent their need to spray and their ability to return. 

The damage from a skunk’s firepower can linger for months. Skunk spray is highly flammable and can cause eye injuries. If you suspect a skunk has taken up residence on your property, don’t panic. Contact us at Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control to help with the removal of wildlife around your property. Our experienced team in Ajax will ensure that the skunk is removed humanely and provide the necessary repairs to eliminate them trying to get back inside.