Spring is here, and with it comes all kinds of wildlife looking to make a new home in our gardens and yards. Unfortunately, skunks are among the most common animals that we can expect to find in our outdoor spaces this time of year. They are known to spray an unpleasant scent when they feel threatened, and they can also cause damage to our gardens, yards, and even our homes. Fortunately, there are several simple steps that we can take to prevent a skunk infestation on our Coquitlam properties this spring.

From securing our garbage cans to removing food sources and ensuring that any openings in our homes are sealed up, we can take proactive measures to deter skunks from taking up residence on our properties. So, if you’re looking for effective skunk removal in Coquitlam or simply want to know how to keep skunks out of your garden this spring, read on for some helpful tips from our experts at Skedaddle

Spring Season: The Breeding Period and Its Implications 

During spring, skunks actively seek out mates, which can lead to an increased presence of these creatures on your premises. Breeding season generally runs from February to May, with females giving birth to litters of four to six kits in late spring and early summer. So what does this mean for your property? This period can mean an increased likelihood of encountering skunks, especially in dens they might establish around your property. 

Understanding skunks and their behaviour can be a significant step towards preventing an infestation. They are nocturnal creatures and while they may appear to be a nuisance, they are largely peaceful and are not prone to attacking unless threatened.  

It is, however, important to remember that their notorious defensive spray is not only unpleasant but can also cause temporary blindness and discomfort in people and pets. Therefore, co-existing peacefully with these black-and-white creatures requires preventive measures and efficient management plans. 

Signs of a Skunk Infestation: What to Look Out for This Spring 

Skunks, like any wildlife, leave distinctive signs of their presence. Paying attention to these signs is key to preventing an unwelcome infestation. Here are some giveaway signs that skunks might be moving in on your turf: 

• Distinctive Odour: A potent, musky scent is a surefire sign of a skunk’s presence. You may not see the animal itself, but their spray is unmistakable.
• Dug-up Plants: Skunks, with their strong claws, are fantastic diggers. They are known to uproot plants and dig small holes in lawns while foraging for food.
• Gnawed Fruits: They eat a variety of things. If you observe gnawed fruits and vegetables in your garden, this could indicate a skunk’s visit.
• Tracks or droppings: Skunk tracks are distinctive, and their droppings bear hints of what they’ve been eating. Residential properties with abundant food and water options can attract them.

Though encountering these signs is ominous, it also provides you with the opportunity to prevent a full-blown infestation. Acknowledging these cues sooner rather than later is a boon for effective skunk management. 

How to Deter Skunks from Your Property 

Keeping skunks away from your property doesn’t have to be a complicated task. With prudent steps and a little knowledge about their habits, you can successfully deter these striped creatures from setting up residence on your property. Here are some simple and effective measures that can help you keep skunks at bay: 

• Secure Your Garbage Cans: Skunks are opportunistic foragers who won’t hesitate to rummage through your trash for a quick meal. Make sure your garbage cans are tightly sealed or locked away in an enclosed area to eliminate this easy source of nourishment.
• Remove Food Sources: Skunks are attracted by an assorted menu, which includes fruits, vegetables, pet food, and even compost piles. Remember to pick up fallen fruits from your yard, keep pet food indoors, especially at night, and maintain your compost bin properly to prevent unwanted skunk visits.
• Cover Potential Entrances: They are burrowing animals and can effortlessly dig under fences or decks to make a cozy home. Sealing up these potential entrances with sturdy wire mesh will discourage their unwelcome visitation.
• Install Motion Sensor Lights: As nocturnal creatures, they prefer the cover of darkness. Installing motion sensor lighting around your yard and near potential den areas will make your property less attractive to them.
• Lightly Sprinkle Ammonia: While this may not be the most pleasant smelling option, skunks are deterred by the strong scent of ammonia. Consider soaking old rags in ammonia and placing them in areas where skunks may frequent. However, please be considerate of your neighbours and do this sparingly.   

It’s important to mention that while these preventative measures are usually effective, skunks can be persistent and clever, so more than one strategy may be needed. Also, keep in mind that timing is critical. Spring is the skunk breeding season, so if you’re facing a skunk problem, it’s crucial to take immediate action.

All these measures aim to make your yard less attractive to skunks, reducing their opportunities to feed, nest and hide. However, if you still find these striped mammals frequenting your property or, even worse, setting up residence, it is best to enlist the help of professionals. 

Humane Skunk Removal in Coquitlam with Skedaddle 

At Skedaddle, we pride ourselves on providing effective, humane, and long-term solutions for skunk-related problems. We understand the vital role skunks play in the ecosystem, from pest control to soil aeration. Hence, our methods involve encouraging these creatures to leave your property without harming them.  

Our team of wildlife control experts at Skedaddle uses comprehensive and multi-faceted strategies to drive skunks away from your property. We believe by understanding the skunk’s behaviour, habitats, and dietary patterns, we can create an unwelcoming environment for them without resorting to harmful techniques. 

Here’s what you can expect from Skedaddle: 

• Onsite Assessment: Our first step is a comprehensive on-site assessment to understand the extent of the skunk problem. We identify their routes, feeding grounds, and possible hiding places on your property.
• Humane Skunk Removal: Once we’ve established the skunk’s presence, we use innovative, humane removal strategies to encourage skunks to vacate your property. Our methods neither involve killing nor relocating the creatures so that they can continue to contribute positively to the environment.
• Preventive Measures: To ensure the skunks don’t return, we follow up by putting preventive measures in place. This may involve installing exclusion barriers, sealing up potential entrances, and advising on changes to make your property unattractive to skunks.
• Post-Removal Inspection: We conclude with a post-removal inspection of your property to ensure our strategies have been effective, and there are no lingering skunks. This step also helps us identify if other wildlife might be a potential issue.

In conclusion, prevention is key, but if skunks still find their way onto your property, Skedaddle is ready and equipped to help you deal with the situation in a humane way. Our team of skilled technicians is trained in effective, responsible wildlife control methods that prioritize the well-being of the creatures and the safety of your property. We believe that it’s possible to live harmoniously with wildlife, and we’re here to help you do just that. 

Contact our friendly Skedaddle team in Coquitlam for a consultation today, and reclaim your property – safely, effectively, and humanely.