Stepping out onto your deck only to catch a foul smell or spot small holes nearby could mean a family of skunks has made a home underneath. These nocturnal animals are drawn to dark, secluded spaces like decks, which provide a safe spot for raising their young. While skunks may seem harmless, their presence can result in strong odours, property damage from burrowing, and potential risks if interactions occur. If you’re dealing with this issue, it’s important to prioritize safe, humane removal methods to protect both your household and the animals.

At Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control in Coquitlam, we specialize in resolving wildlife conflicts, including skunk removal. Using effective, humane techniques, we ensure skunks are safely excluded without harm, relying on methods that prioritize both your safety and the well-being of the animals. Whether you’re identifying a skunk den or looking for ways to remove them, we have the expertise to help you reclaim your space while maintaining harmony with wildlife.

Recognizing the Signs of a Skunk Family Under Your Deck 

When it comes to identifying the presence of skunks under your deck, it’s important to recognize certain telltale signs. By keeping an eye out for these indicators, you can take prompt action and ensure a peaceful coexistence. 

If you catch a whiff of an unmistakable, pungent smell, it could be a sign that skunks have taken up residence nearby. Skunks are known for their potent spray, and a strong odour is often an indication of their proximity.

Skunks are skilled diggers and will create burrows or dig-out areas close to the foundation of your deck. Keep an eye out for small holes or disturbed soil, as these can be signs of skunk activity.

Also, skunks are primarily nocturnal creatures, so if you spot them around your deck during the early morning or evening hours, it’s a clear indication of their presence.

It’s worth noting that spring and summer are common times for skunk families to seek shelter, as skunk mothers may be looking for a safe den for their kits. If you suspect skunks under your deck, it’s important to seek professional removal techniques to ensure a humane and effective resolution.

Why You Shouldn’t Attempt This on Your Own 

It might be tempting to take matters into your own hands, but trying to remove a family of skunks without professional help is highly inadvisable. Here’s why:

• Risk of Spraying: If these animals feel threatened, they may spray as a defensive mechanism. The result? An overpowering smell that can linger for days—and a much bigger issue on your hands. 
• Potential for Injury: Cornering or handling these animals yourself increases the chances of bites or scratches, especially if a mother feels her kits are at risk. 
• Harm to the Animals: Separating the mother from her young is avoidable but easy to do without expertise. This leaves the babies vulnerable to predators or starvation. 

Improper handling can cause harm to both you and the animals. It’s always better to call a professional wildlife control company, like Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control in Coquitlam, to handle the situation safely and humanely. 

Safe and Humane Removal Methods 

When it comes to the safe and humane removal of skunks, relying on professionals like us at Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control in Coquitlam is the responsible choice. We begin by carefully inspecting the area, checking for entry points under the deck and confirming the presence of a skunk family. Understanding animal behaviour is key—startling them can lead to defensive spraying or leaving the kits vulnerable.

One of the most effective methods we use for humane removal is installing one-way doors at entry points. These devices allow the mother to leave but prevent her from returning, encouraging her to relocate her kits to a safer location away from your deck. This approach ensures no direct interaction with the animals, reducing stress for them and keeping you safe.

Once the skunks have vacated, we thoroughly check the area to ensure no animals remain. It’s essential to avoid surprising any stragglers, as this can cause further complications. After confirming the area is clear, we seal off their entry points with durable, skunk-proof materials to ensure they won’t return or burrow elsewhere under your home.

Long-Term Prevention Tips 

If you’ve recently had a skunk problem, the last thing you want is for them to return. Thankfully, with a few simple strategies, you can discourage skunks from making your property their home for good.

• Keep garbage tightly sealed and avoid leaving pet food outdoors to remove temptations. Secure compost bins with tight-fitting lids.
• Regularly clear debris, woodpiles, and overgrown shrubs to eliminate hiding spots.
• Inspect your deck and foundation for gaps, cracks, or weak spots, and seal them to block potential entry points.
• Install motion-activated lights or sprinklers to deter skunks from wandering onto your property.

By addressing food sources, hiding places, and entry points, you create an environment that’s less appealing to skunks. With these preventative measures in place, you can enjoy a skunk-free property and peace of mind for the long term!

When to Call for Help 

Handling a skunk family requires professional expertise to ensure the safety of both humans and animals. At Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control in Coquitlam, we understand the challenges of dealing with skunks and offer humane skunk removal services. Our experienced team specializes in safe and effective techniques to handle skunk infestations. We use proven methods, such as one-way doors, that allow skunks to leave your property without being harmed, preventing their return. 

If you suspect skunks are living under your deck or in your yard, let the experts at Skedaddle handle the situation for you safely and effectively. Don’t attempt to remove skunks on your own, as they can spray as a defence mechanism. Our professional technicians are trained to handle skunks with care, ensuring a humane approach to wildlife control.

Contact us today to request a quote or learn more about our skunk removal services. Our reliable and service-oriented team is here to help you solve your skunk problem and provide peace of mind.