If you’ve noticed signs of skunks nesting under your deck or shed, it’s essential to take action quickly. Preventing skunk infestations under decks is vital not only for your comfort but also to avoid potential property damage and health risks. The dangers of skunks nesting near homes include persistent odours that infiltrate your living space, structural damage caused by their digging, and the transmission of diseases. 

Here at Skedaddle in London, we specialize in humane and effective solutions to safely remove skunks from your property and prevent future issues.

4 Dangers of Skunks Nesting Near Homes

Many homeowners underestimate the challenges associated with skunks nesting near their homes. While these animals may seem harmless from a distance, their presence can lead to several significant issues:

1. The Persistent Odour

One of the most notorious problems with skunks is their ability to spray a pungent, long-lasting scent when they feel threatened. If a skunk sprays under your deck or shed, the smell can seep into your home and linger for weeks. This doesn’t only affect your comfort; it can also make hosting friends or family impossible, as the odour may be challenging and embarrassing to deal with. Plus, pets that encounter skunks frequently end up sprayed as well, adding to your frustration.

2. Structural Damage

Skunks are excellent diggers, and their determination to create a safe den can wreak havoc on your property. Skunks easily burrow below decks, sheds, and porches, displacing large amounts of soil in the process. Over time, this tunnelling can destabilize the structures above, leading to significant repair costs. Additionally, their digging can ruin lawns and landscaping around your yard, further diminishing the curb appeal of your home.

3. Disease Risks

Skunks are known carriers of diseases such as rabies and leptospirosis, which can pose serious risks to humans and pets. Distinguishing between a healthy skunk and an infected one is often impossible without professional help. Furthermore, skunks can leave behind contaminated droppings and soiled materials, which may harbour bacteria that can spread illnesses.

4. Risks to Pets

If you have curious pets, skunks nesting nearby can result in encounters that lead to injury or unpleasant experiences. From spraying to rabies exposure, your pets are at higher risk when skunks move in too close to your family’s space.

Each of these issues highlights the importance of addressing skunk activity near your home promptly. The longer skunks are allowed to occupy the area, the more likely these problems will escalate.

Preventing Skunk Infestations Under Decks

Prevention is the best strategy to ensure skunks don’t take up residence on your property. With a proactive approach, you can reduce the likelihood of an infestation and avoid costly remediation. Here are some effective ways to discourage skunks from nesting under your deck or shed:

• Install Barriers: Using heavy-gauge steel mesh to block access beneath your deck or shed is a highly effective preventative measure. Digging the mesh 8–12 inches into the ground ensures skunks can’t burrow underneath.
• Remove Food Sources: Skunks are opportunistic feeders. To discourage them, eliminate attractants such as garbage, pet food, and fallen fruit from your yard.
• Secure Compost Bins and Garbage Cans: Use bins with tight-fitting lids to prevent skunks from rummaging for food.
• Keep Your Yard Tidy: Mow your lawn regularly and eliminate piles of wood, leaves, or other debris that provide shelter for skunks.
• Seal Potential Dens: Check for any existing gaps or holes around your property and seal them promptly to block access.

By taking these steps, you can create an environment that’s unappealing for skunks, reducing the risk of them settling near your home.

How to Safely Remove Skunks From Your Property

Once skunks have already made their home beneath your deck, porch, or shed, it’s important to address the situation safely and humanely. Attempting to remove skunks on your own is risky and can result in unintended sprays, bites, or other dangers. Here’s how professionals like us at Skedaddle approach skunk removal:

1. Assess and Locate

Our experienced technicians begin by identifying the entry points and determining the number of skunks on your property. This includes inspecting for signs of burrows, droppings, and other clues to locate their nest.

2. Humane Removal

We specialize in hands-on, humane removal methods to prevent harm to both the skunks and your property. This includes gently relocating baby skunks using heated reunion boxes, allowing the mother to move them to a safe alternative den site.

3. Prevent Re-entry

After successfully removing the skunks, we secure the area with a custom heavy-gauge steel mesh barrier. This ensures that no skunks—or other digging animals—can gain access in the future.

4. Clean and Deodorize

Removing the skunks doesn’t end the process. We clean and sanitize any contaminated or soiled areas to ensure your home remains safe and hygienic for your family. Additionally, deodorizing the surrounding area reduces the chances of attracting other animals.

The humane techniques we employ not only protect the skunks but also ensure your family and pets are safe throughout the process.

Why Skedaddle is the Best Choice for Skunk Removal in London

Skedaddle stands out as the leading choice for skunk removal in London due to our commitment to humane, effective, and comprehensive wildlife control services. With over three decades of experience, we have developed proven methods that ensure the safe removal of skunks while protecting the integrity of your property. Our team of trained professionals understands the behaviour and biology of skunks, allowing us to implement tailored solutions that address the root cause of the issue and prevent future invasions.

• Focus on both immediate and long-term solutions  
• Use industry-leading techniques to safely remove skunks without harm  
• Thoroughly inspect your property to identify entry points and vulnerabilities  
• Professionally seal access points to safeguard your home or business for years to come

Furthermore, our commitment extends beyond removal. We prioritize cleaning, sanitizing, and deodorizing affected areas to restore a safe and healthy environment for your family. With a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction, Skedaddle provides exemplary service that puts your needs first. For reliable, humane, and professional skunk removal in London, trust Skedaddle to deliver outstanding results every time.

Take Action to Protect Your Home

Addressing skunks denning near your property isn’t just about eliminating a nuisance—it’s about protecting your family’s health and safeguarding your property from costly damage. Preventing skunk infestations under decks and handling removals professionally ensures the best possible outcome for both you and the animals.

If you’ve noticed signs of skunk activity, don’t wait for the problem to get worse. Call our team at Skedaddle today, and we’ll help you reclaim your property with safe, humane, and effective solutions. Your comfort and peace of mind are our top priorities.