While some might suggest the use of repellents, such as ammonia or mothballs, research suggests that these types of DIY methods aren’t effective for deterring skunks. In fact, they may even lead to harmful consequences for both humans and skunks themselves. So, when it comes to dealing with a skunk problem, it’s best to rely on professional help to ensure both safety and effectiveness.

One of our technicians, David Eveleigh, recently came across some DIY methods used by homeowners to help get rid of skunks under their shed. Learn why this was not a good idea and how it made even more of a problem requiring them to call for skunk removal in Ancaster. 

Dealing with wildlife can not only be dangerous, but it can also be unpleasant, especially when it involves skunks. Recently our technician, David, was reminded that while DIY methods may not work, they could also worsen the situation. 

Skunks are attracted to older communities with healthy gardens and lawns where they can forage for fruits and grubs to eat. Ancaster is a prime location for skunks as there are lush gardens with an abundance of food sources. Many people in the community also have a shed or porch in their yard, which is a perfect place for a mother skunk to make her den. 

A Pungent Job

On this job, our technician, David, was called to a home after the owners could smell a strong odour of skunk and found signs of them digging around their shed and next to their house. The homeowners had tried numerous DIY methods to deter the skunks from their property, such as cutting up lemons and placing them around the shed in hopes the smell would deter them. 

Unfortunately, DIY methods never work, and in this case, caused a delay in getting professional technicians called to the scene. During this time, the skunk had dug a den under the shed where she had a litter of babies. The ground under the shed consisted of sand, making perfect conditions for her to dig underneath. She even had two entryways from each side of the shed!

When David arrived at the property, he first noticed the pungent smell around the shed where the mother had sprayed around the area. He knew that this mamma skunk was diligent in protecting her babies. David used our humane method of removing animals with two one-way doors placed under the shed. One larger for mamma skunk and a smaller one for the skunk babies to exit without having the ability to return. 

An Added Surprise

David had a suspicion during this assessment of the property and after removing the floorboards in the shed, he found more babies living underneath. Using a hands-on approach, David lifted the two babies he could access by hand while the mother carried the others away to an unreachable place. 

The entire perimeter was secured with a preventive steel screen which was buried into the ground around the shed. This helped to ensure the skunk could not access the area even if it dug deeper. 

After securing the entire area, the floorboards were replaced, and it was time to wait for the skunks to exit. After only a couple of hours, the family of skunks exited from under the shed. Without the ability to return under the shed, the mother skunk collected her babies and carried them to a new location, one by one. The two babies that were removed by hand were placed in a baby box beside the shed, and the mamma skunk also carried them to safety. 

The homeowners used DIY methods that cost them time, allowing the skunk to settle into the den and have a litter of babies. This is just one reason why DIY methods don’t work for wildlife control. They can cost homeowners time and money, and could also create dangerous situations. 

Skunks In Ancaster

Skunks in Ancaster are a common sight and can be a nuisance for homeowners. They are drawn to homes with areas that are safe and comfortable for making a den. To help deter skunks under your shed or property, block off any potential entry points, such as under porches or sheds, using mesh or wire fencing. Also, always ensure that your garbage cans have tight-fitted lids to prevent skunks from raiding them for food scraps. These simple yet effective steps can go a long way in deterring skunks and helping you maintain a skunk-free property.

DIY Solutions Can Be Dangerous

Removing wildlife from your home may seem like a simple DIY project, but it’s a dangerous task requiring expertise, experience, and proper equipment. In fact, attempting to remove wildlife from your house without professional help can be hazardous to your health and even lead to legal complications. 

For instance, some animals can carry dangerous diseases that can be transmitted through bites, scratches, or contaminated feces. Additionally, some species can cause serious structural damage to your property by gnawing, scratching, or nesting. That’s why relying on a professional wildlife removal service is always advisable. They have the knowledge and skills to remove all types of animals safely and efficiently, minimizing the risk of injury or property damage. Don’t put yourself or your property at risk; call in the experts to handle the job.

How Skedaddle Can Help

The technicians at Skedaddle have the training and equipment to safely remove wildlife from your home or property. We are recognized by local wildlife associations for our humane removal methods. Our three-step process can help ensure that wildlife gets removed humanely, your home is cleaned after the removal process, and the animals will not return after. 

When it comes to skunks, the added fear of getting sprayed is an added risk of DIY solutions. The technicians at Skedaddle understand how to remove a mother skunk and her babies, without causing her to spray, which would cause further odour problems to the property.

If you suspect you have unwanted wildlife on your property or in your home, contact us for skunk removal today!