Secrets of the Stink: Discovering the Enigmatic Skunk

Posted on August 27, 2024 by smokywildlife

Skunks are more than just their infamous odor. These fascinating creatures hold a wealth of secrets waiting to be uncovered. Known for their distinctive black-and-white coloring and potent defense mechanism, skunks play a unique role in our ecosystem. For nature lovers, animal enthusiasts, wildlife educators, and homeowners alike, understanding these misunderstood mammals can lead to a greater appreciation of their contribution to biodiversity and how to coexist peacefully with them.

In this post, we’ll explore some lesser-known skunk facts, unraveling their mysterious behaviors and ecological importance. We’ll cover the various species of skunks, their nocturnal habits, dietary preferences, life cycles, and common misconceptions. Plus, we’ll provide practical tips for living harmoniously with these creatures, ensuring that you can appreciate their presence without any unpleasant surprises.

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Skunk Species and Distribution

Skunks are part of the Mephitidae family, and they come in a variety of species, each with distinct features. The most well-known species is the Striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis), characterized by its prominent black body and white stripes running from head to tail. But did you know there are other types of skunks? The spotted skunk, hooded skunk, and hog-nosed skunk are just a few examples. Each species has its unique adaptations and characteristics, making them a fascinating creature to study.

Spotted skunks, for instance, are smaller and more agile than their striped counterparts. They have a series of broken white stripes and spots along their back. Hooded skunks boast a large, flowing white or cream-colored fur on their neck and back, resembling a hood, while the hog-nosed skunk features a distinct snout perfect for rooting through the ground in search of food.

Geographical Distribution

Skunks are primarily found in the Americas, with a range extending from Canada down to South America. The striped skunk is the most widespread, occupying regions across North America, from woodlands and grasslands to urban areas. In contrast, the hooded skunk prefers arid, desert-like environments in the southwestern United States and Mexico.

The geographical distribution of skunks allows them to thrive in diverse habitats, adapting to various climates and ecosystems. Understanding their distribution is crucial for appreciating their ecological role and implementing effective skunk control measures in areas where they might conflict with human activities.

Typical Skunk Behaviors

Nocturnal Schedule

Skunks are primarily nocturnal animals, meaning they are most active during the night. This behavior is an adaptation to avoid predators, as many animals that hunt skunks are diurnal, or active during the day. By foraging for food and exploring their environment under the cover of darkness, skunks can reduce their risk of encountering potential threats.

Another reason for their nighttime activity is their opportunistic feeding habits. Skunks rely on their keen sense of smell to locate food, and the cooler, quieter nights allow them to detect the scents of their prey more easily. This nocturnal lifestyle also helps them maintain a lower body temperature, which is essential for conserving energy and surviving in various environments.

Omnivorous Diet

Skunks are omnivores, meaning they consume both plant and animal matter. Their diet is surprisingly diverse, consisting of insects, small rodents, birds, eggs, fruits, and vegetables. Insects and larvae make up a significant portion of their food intake, making skunks valuable allies in controlling pest populations.

One surprising aspect of a skunk’s diet is their fondness for honeybees. Skunks will often raid beehives, consuming the bees and their larvae. Their thick fur provides protection against bee stings, allowing them to enjoy their sweet treat without consequence. Additionally, skunks have been known to scavenge for carrion, utilizing their strong sense of smell to locate deceased animals.

Skunk Lifespan and Reproduction

Average Lifespan

In the wild, skunks typically have a lifespan of around two to four years. However, when kept in captivity with proper care, they can live up to a decade. Predation, disease, and human-related factors such as road accidents contribute to their relatively short lifespan in natural settings.

Despite their brief lives, skunks play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance. They help control insect populations, disperse seeds, and serve as prey for larger predators. Understanding their life cycle is essential for ensuring the preservation of these remarkable creatures and the ecosystems they inhabit.

Mating and Birthing Habits

Skunk mating season occurs in late winter to early spring, with females giving birth to litters of four to six kits after a gestation period of around 60 to 75 days. Skunk mothers are devoted caregivers, tending to their young in burrows or dens until they are old enough to venture out on their own.

Kits are born blind and deaf, relying entirely on their mother for nourishment and protection. By six to eight weeks of age, they begin exploring their surroundings and learning essential survival skills. This period of parental care is crucial for their development, ensuring they grow into independent, self-sufficient adults.

Common Misconceptions About Skunks

Skunks are often misunderstood creatures, and several myths and misconceptions surround them. One prevalent myth is that skunks spray indiscriminately. In reality, skunks use their spray as a last resort defense mechanism, only releasing their potent musk when they feel threatened and have no other means of escape.

Another misconception is that skunks are aggressive animals. While they may appear bold, skunks are generally docile and shy creatures that prefer to avoid confrontation. They often give warning signals, such as stamping their feet or raising their tails, before resorting to spraying.

Living with Nearby Skunk Populations

Skunks in Urban and Rural Areas

Coexisting with skunks in urban and rural areas is possible with a little understanding and consideration. Skunks are primarily attracted to food sources, so securing garbage cans and removing pet food from outside can help deter them from visiting your property.

Skunk-Proofing Your Property

To prevent skunks from taking up residence on your property, consider sealing off potential den sites such as under decks, porches, or sheds. Installing motion-activated lights or sprinklers can also deter skunks, as they prefer dark, quiet environments.

If you encounter a skunk on your property, remain calm and give it space. Skunks are generally non-aggressive and will likely move on if they don’t find food or shelter. Avoid startling them, as this could provoke a defensive spray.

Cleaning Skunk Smell out of Pet Fur

One of the most unpleasant aspects of skunk encounters is the lingering odor. If your pet gets sprayed, act quickly to neutralize the smell. A popular remedy involves using a mixture of hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and dish soap. Apply this solution to your pet’s fur, avoiding the eyes, and rinse thoroughly. Repeat as needed until the odor dissipates.

Conclusion

Skunks are truly remarkable creatures, with unique behaviors and ecological roles that often go unappreciated. By understanding their habits, diet, and life cycle, we can learn to coexist with them peacefully and appreciate the vital contributions they make to our environment.

Next time you encounter a skunk, remember the secrets you’ve discovered and share this newfound knowledge with others. Encourage them to see past the stigma and appreciate these enigmatic animals for the fascinating creatures they are.

If you’re dealing with nuisance skunks or want professional advice on skunk control, consider reaching out to a local wildlife expert or pest control service. They can provide guidance and support to ensure that both you and the skunks can coexist harmoniously.

Stay informed and stay secure. Skunk-proofing your home is not just about maintaining the four walls around you; it’s about being responsible stewards of the wildlife that share this magnificent planet with us. Contact Smoky Wildlife Control at 615-610-0962 for TWRA licensed and insured skunk removal and control servic e in Nashville and Clarksville, Tennessee. We serve residential and commercial properties. Trust us for safe, humane, and affordable bat control and extraction.

Omnivorous Wildlife in Tennessee and What That Means for Residents

Posted on August 16, 2024 by smokywildlife

Imagine the lush, green landscape of Tennessee, where the Smoky Mountains meet the Mississippi River, creating a haven for a diverse range of wildlife. From the secretive black bear to the playful raccoon, and the melodious songbirds, Tennessee is home to creatures that captivate the heart. But have you ever wondered what these animals eat to sustain themselves in such a rich yet competitive environment? Join us on this journey into the world of Tennessee’s omnivorous wildlife and discover the vital roles they play in our ecosystem.

Call 615-610-0962 For Nuisance Wildlife Control in Nashville Tennessee - We Do Not Work With Bears — Call 615-610-0962 For Nuisance Wildlife Control in Nashville Tennessee – We Do Not Work With Bears

A Closer Look at Tennessee’s Diverse Wildlife

Tennessee is a state blessed with a variety of ecosystems, from mountainous terrains to sprawling wetlands. This diversity of habitats supports a rich tapestry of wildlife, each species contributing uniquely to the ecosystem. The state’s wildlife ranges from the smallest insects to the largest mammals, each playing a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance.

Tennessee’s forests are alive with the rustle of leaves from deer and other large mammals, while its skies are frequently painted with the graceful flight of birds of prey and bats. Waterways teem with fish and amphibians, contributing to the rich biodiversity. This intricate web of life makes Tennessee a vibrant natural wonder, with omnivores contributing significantly to this balance.

The role of omnivorous animals is particularly interesting as these creatures help regulate populations, disperse seeds, and clean up the environment. Understanding their diets and behaviors provides insight into the health and sustainability of Tennessee’s ecosystems, offering a deeper appreciation of the natural world around us.

Overview of Omnivorous Diets in the Animal Kingdom

An omnivorous diet typically includes both plant-based and animal-based foods. This dietary flexibility allows omnivores to adapt to varying environmental conditions and available resources. Unlike strict carnivores or herbivores, omnivores have the advantage of a more varied food supply, which can be crucial for survival.

Omnivores utilize a variety of physical adaptations to access different food sources. For example, they may have sharp teeth for tearing flesh and flat molars for grinding plants. Behavioral adaptations also play a role; many omnivores are opportunistic feeders, which means they consume whatever is available at the time.

This adaptability is a key factor in their success across diverse environments, including those found in Tennessee. By eating both plants and animals, omnivores play a unique role in the food web, influencing the population dynamics of both their prey and the plant species they consume.

Spotlight on Omnivorous Wildlife in Tennessee

Tennessee hosts a fascinating array of omnivorous wildlife, each with its own niche. Among them, the black bear is a prominent figure, known for its adaptable diet that includes berries, nuts, insects, and occasionally small animals. These bears are not just powerful predators but also essential seed dispersers, helping to maintain forest health.

Raccoons, another common omnivore in Tennessee, are often seen foraging near water bodies or raiding urban garbage bins. Their dexterous paws and sharp intelligence allow them to exploit a wide range of food sources, making them incredibly adaptable to both wild and urban environments.

Skunks, opossums, and chipmunks are also examples of omnivorous mammals found in Tennessee. These creatures have evolved to thrive on a diverse diet of plants, insects, small animals, and even carrion. Their varied diets make them vital players in the ecosystem’s balance.

Bird species like the American crow also exhibit omnivorous diets, consuming everything from fruits and seeds to carrion and small invertebrates. This dietary versatility allows them to thrive in Tennessee’s varied landscapes, contributing to pest control and seed dispersal.

Importance of Omnivores in the Ecosystem

Omnivores play a critical role in maintaining ecological balance. By consuming both plants and animals, they help control populations of various species, preventing any one group from dominating an ecosystem. This balance is essential for the health and stability of the environment.

These animals contribute to ecosystem services, such as seed dispersal and pollination, which are crucial for plant reproduction and biodiversity. Omnivores like the black bear and raccoon often spread seeds through their droppings, facilitating the growth of new plants and maintaining forest health.

Additionally, omnivores act as natural scavengers, cleaning up carrion and preventing the spread of disease. This important ecological service helps maintain sanitary conditions in natural environments, reducing potential health risks for other wildlife and humans alike.

Challenges Facing Omnivorous Wildlife in Tennessee

Despite their adaptability, omnivorous wildlife in Tennessee faces several challenges. Habitat loss due to urbanization and agriculture reduces the availability of natural food sources and living spaces. This fragmentation of habitats forces many animals to venture into human-populated areas, increasing the risk of conflict.

Climate change further exacerbates these challenges by altering food availability and habitat conditions. Rising temperatures and shifting weather patterns affect the seasonal abundance of food, forcing omnivores to adjust their diets and foraging behaviors, often with mixed success.

Human-wildlife conflict is another significant issue, as animals like raccoons and bears can become nuisances when they enter urban areas in search of food. This often leads to negative interactions, resulting in harm to both wildlife and property.

Professional Wildlife Removal Services for Nuisance Animals

When omnivorous wildlife becomes a nuisance, professional wildlife removal services offer safe and humane solutions. These experts are trained to handle animals responsibly, ensuring both human safety and the well-being of the wildlife involved. Utilizing such services helps prevent unnecessary harm and promotes coexistence.

Wildlife removal professionals assess each situation individually, considering factors like the animal species, behavior, and location. They employ non-lethal methods whenever possible, such as trapping and relocation, to minimize stress and injuries to animals while addressing human concerns.

By choosing a professional animal removal company, residents can ensure that nuisance animals are managed in an ethical manner. This approach not only resolves immediate issues but also helps maintain harmonious relationships between humans and wildlife in Tennessee’s diverse ecosystems.

Final Thoughts

Tennessee’s omnivorous wildlife is a vital component of the state’s rich biodiversity. From the curious raccoon to the majestic black bear, these creatures contribute to the intricate balance of nature, providing essential ecosystem services that benefit both the environment and society.

Understanding the roles and challenges of omnivorous wildlife encourages us to appreciate and protect these remarkable animals. By fostering a sense of stewardship and adopting responsible practices, we can help ensure that Tennessee’s natural wonders continue to thrive for generations to come.

Contact a Local Wildlife Control Company if Needed

If you encounter nuisance animals in your area, consider reaching out to a local wildlife control company. These professionals offer valuable expertise in managing wildlife conflicts, ensuring safe and humane solutions that benefit both people and animals. By working together, we can support Tennessee’s diverse ecosystems and coexist peacefully with the incredible wildlife that calls this state home.

Are you concerned about the nuisance wildlife on or around your property? Contact Smoky Wildlife Control at 615-610-0962 for TWRA licensed and insured wildlife removal and control services in Nashville, Tennessee, and surrounding counties. We serve residential and commercial clients.

Effective Strategies for Skunk Removal

Posted on August 17, 2023 by smokywildlife

Skunks, with their distinctive black and white coloring and pungent odor, can be a real nuisance when they decide to take up residence in your yard or under your house. Their scent marking is not only unpleasant but can also pose a threat to pets and small children. If you’re in a situation where these creatures have made themselves a little too at home, it’s time to implement a few effective skunk removal strategies.

This blog post will provide you with comprehensive insights into skunk control and introduce you to some safe and effective skunk repellents. Let’s embark on this journey to reclaim your space from these unwelcome guests.

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Identifying a Skunk Infestation Problem

The first step to skunk removal is properly identifying the problem. You must assess the situation and determine whether you have a single skunk or an entire family living on your property. This will help you determine which strategies are best suited to address your particular problem and allow you to devise a more effective plan of action.

Humane Skunk Removal Methods

Since skunks are typically non-aggressive animals, it’s best to try and remove them using humane methods. You can set up a live trap near the entrance of their den and bait it with food such as sardines or tuna. Once the skunk is trapped, you can release it in an appropriate location far away from populated areas.

Another humane option is to use exclusion techniques such as fencing or one-way doors. By blocking off the entrance of their den, you can force them out while also preventing them from returning. This strategy does require patience as it may take a few weeks for the skunk to find an alternate place to live.

Safely Controlling Nuisance Skunk Populations

It’s not enough to simply remove the skunks from your property. It’s important to also take steps to limit their population growth by implementing a few preventive measures. For starters, you should practice good sanitation and eliminate any sources of food that may attract skunks. This includes pet food, bird seed, unsecured garbage bins or compost piles. You should also plug up any holes or tunnels in the ground where a skunk could make a den.

Skunk Repellent and Deterrents

There are various commercial skunk repellents on the market such as ammonia, predator urine or motion-activated sprinklers. Once applied, these products can effectively drive away skunks and discourage them from returning. You can also use homemade skunk repellent such as a mixture of vinegar and water, garlic or cayenne pepper spray. When sprayed near the entrances of burrows, these solutions are just as effective in preventing skunks from entering your property. However, you may need to reapply the solution every few days for it to remain effective.

Professional Wildlife Control Assistance

If all else fails, you may need to call in professional animal removal and control company help. A qualified wildlife removal expert can take the necessary steps to humanely trap skunks and remove them from your property. They can also provide long-term solutions for keeping them away. Never attempt to touch, trap, harm, or kill a skunk under any circumstances – unless you are properly and legally licensed to do so.

Safety Considerations

It’s important to keep safety top of mind when dealing with wild animals such as skunks. Make sure to wear protective clothing such as long sleeves and gloves and keep your distance when removing the skunk from its den. Additionally, never attempt to handle a skunk or transport it in your car as this can lead to serious injury. If you have any questions about skunk removal or need professional assistance, don’t hesitate to contact a certified Tennessee wildlife expert near Nashville. With their help, you can quickly and safely get rid of any unwanted skunk visitors.

In Conclusion

By applying these tips and strategies, you should be able to address your skunk problem with ease. Remember to take preventive measures to stop skunks from returning and use humane methods whenever possible for skunk control. With the proper steps in place, you can reclaim your property and keep it safe from these smelly pests. Skunks may be unpleasant, but they don’t have to be permanent residents of your property. By taking the time to research skunk removal strategies and implementing them correctly, you can reclaim your space and keep it safe from any future intruders.

Get rid of your nuisance skunk problems with our advanced critter control solutions! Contact Smoky Wildlife Control at 615-610-0962 for TWRA licensed skunk removal and control in Nashville, Tennessee, and surrounding counties. We serve residential and commercial clients.

What To Do If You or Your Pet is Sprayed By a Skunk

Posted on November 21, 2022 by smokywildlife

Are you one of the unlucky few who has had the misfortune of coming too close to a skunk and getting sprayed? Perhaps it was your curious dog that had the bad luck? Either way, join the club. Skunks are notorious for their smelly spray, which can leave an unforgettable stench in your nose and clothes that just won’t go away.

But don’t worry – it’s possible to get rid of the smell. Continue below to learn how to remove skunk smell on yourself and your pet, plus tips on how to handle a skunk encounter.

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What is Skunk Spray?

Skunks are some of the most unique and fascinating creatures in the animal kingdom. Known for their unmistakable black-and-white stripes, skunks possess an incredible defense mechanism that can ward off even the biggest of predators: their infamous spray! But what exactly is this powerful odor, and why do skunks spray it?

When threatened or feeling threatened, skunks will usually give off a warning rather than immediately spraying their musk. This warning may include stomping their feet or hissing. If the perceived threat does not back away at this point, then the skunk will spray its musk as a last line of defense.

Skunk musk is actually a combination of various chemicals, including thiols and other sulfur-containing compounds. Its odor is so strong that it has been known to travel for up to a mile, and has been called the “stink of death”!

Why Do Skunks Smell Bad?

But why does skunk spray smell so bad? It turns out that the unpleasant smell is actually an evolutionary adaptation. Skunks spray their musk to temporarily incapacitate predators, giving them time to make a quick getaway. The strong smell also serves as an effective way of warning potential predators that they should stay away in the future.

It’s safe to say that skunk’s remarkable defense mechanism is something to be admired. As fascinating and powerful as it is, skunk musk can also be a bit of an annoyance when encountered in the wild. So next time you come across one of these unique creatures, remember to admire them from a safe distance!

How to Clean Off Skunk Smell

Here are a few tips for dealing with a skunk encounter and getting your clothes or dog’s fur smelling good again:

1. Avoid direct contact with skunks by keeping your distance and not approaching them.

2. If you do find yourself too close, back away slowly – sudden movements can scare the skunk and make it feel threatened.

3. If you do get sprayed, the first thing to do is get out of the way! Then, put on some old clothes and head outside with a bucket of vinegar water. Soak a towel in the solution and use it to scrub your skin and clothing. This will help neutralize the smell of skunk spray.

4. Once you’ve washed off the stench, hang your clothes outside and let them air out in the sun. The sun’s UV rays will help to break down and remove any remaining odor molecules.

5. If the smell persists, consider using a special skunk odor remover. These products are specifically formulated to remove the chemical compounds that make up skunk spray and can be applied directly to your clothes.

6. Finally, don’t forget to keep your windows open in case there’s any lingering smell inside!

No one enjoys getting sprayed by a skunk, but with the right methods you can do away with the smell and move on with your day. Good luck!

Have you had one too many skunk encounters or sightings on your property and wish to eliminate the problem altogether? Contact Smoky Wildlife Control at 615-610-0962 for TWRA licensed skunk removal in Nashville, Tennessee. We serve residential and commercial clients all throughout Middle Tennessee and its surrounding counties.

How to Get Rid of Skunks in Spring

Posted on March 31, 2022 by smokywildlife

Skunks can be described as docile and gentle animals that typically don’t mess with humans or pets. Of course, there is the occasional, “my dog got sprayed by a skunk incident”, but for the most part, skunks do not pose a safety threat. However, they can be quite destructive to lawns and gardens in the Spring season. If you are dealing with nuisance skunks on your property, it is in your best interest to act fast before the damage can begin this season.

Although some skunk control methods can be implemented using a do-it-yourself approach, there may come a time when professional intervention is needed. Continue reading to learn how to get rid of skunks on your property, plus who to trust in the Smoky Mountain regions for safe and affordable critter control services.

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Nuisance Skunks Versus Natural Skunks

How do you know you have nuisance skunk problem? Periodically seeing one or two skunks your property is not considered a nuisance critter problem. These skunks are naturally in their habitat and likely just passing along. Maybe they take a shortcut through your lawn every now and then. So, this pattern of skunk spotting does not need to be taken seriously unless they become predictable or more frequent. At that point you may want to implement some minor animal proofing strategies just to be safe, especially if you do plant flowerbeds or grow a crop garden of any kind.

Nuisance skunks are distinguishable from natural skunks because they are bothersome. If you have a dog or cat along with persistent skunk activity, you can consider that a nuisance animal problem because there is a likely chance that your pets will get sprayed. If your dog or cat does get sprayed by a skunk, or even you or your family member, immediately bathe in this skunk spray removal treatment:

SKUNK SPRAY REMOVAL SOLUTION:

1 QUART 3% HYDROGEN PEROXIDE
¼ CUP OF BAKING SODA
1-2 TEASPOONS OF LIQUID DISHSOAP

Another way to tell that you have a nuisance skunk problem is by examining the impact of their presence on and around your property. Skunks notorious for digging up lawns and gardens in search of juicy grubs and roots, plus they are stinky. So, if you have a large skunk population around your property, you may also have a backyard that stinks quite often. This is not inviting for your family and your guests when you have outdoor activities or parties planned.

The Key to Getting Rid of Skunks

The secret to getting rid of skunks is to remove all of the things that attract them to your property. In the first place. Ultimately, nuisance critters, one food, water, and shelter. There is really no other reason why they would be on your property. Skunks are omnivores, which means that you both meat and plant matter. They will go after your garden for edible flowers and crops.

Additionally, they will dig up your lawn and gardens for roots, grubs, and worms. Skunks will also pillage your trashcan and outdoor pet feed. For shelter, they like to hide out in wood piles, underneath buildings and porches, and inside tall grass bushes. As for water, they’ll get that from a bird bath, pool, or nearby water source, like a stream or creek.

So long as you eliminate these items or make them more difficult to access, you can effectively abate skunk activity in your property. You can also consider installing flood lights, deep-ground fencing, and even vibrating sound machines to thwart nuisance skunk activity.

Professional Skunk Removal and Control

Sometimes a skunk problem is too much for a property owner to handle on their own. Professional skunk removal and control services are available for a safe and streamlined solution to get rid of skunks in a convenient time frame. They have the permits and licensing authorizing them to perform such work and wildlife transport, as well as the proper resources, equipment, and materials to get the job done right.

Are skunks damaging your property and you want to stop them before the threat worsens? Contact Smoky Wildlife Control at 615-610-0962 for prompt and professional skunk removal and control services in Nashville, Tennessee. We serve both residential and commercial clients of the most competitive rates around.

Best Methods for Outdoor Skunk Control

Posted on March 24, 2021 by smokywildlife

We have all smelled a nearby skunk before as residents of Nashville, Tennessee. But when you actually start to see skunks around your property, it is time for some preventative maintenance. Skunks are a nuisance animal, and will cause your house and yard a long list of troubles. From lingering foul odors and lawn damage to potential and serious health and safety hazards, it is best to get rid of skunks before they can cost you.

Continue below to learn the top recommended methods of skunk control, as well as instructions for getting rid of skunks that are in your house or under your porch.

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Skunks Want Food and Water

If you live near a large body of water, such as a lake, river, pond, or creek, you can best your bottom dollar that you will have nuisance animal interference at some point in time. Animals like skunks are survivors, so all they want is food, water, and shelter. Generally, areas near large bodies of water and woods are hot spots for such wildlife, and will require some environmental modifications to prevent skunk intrusions or damages. Even if you do not live near large bodies of water, there can still be local skunk populations around your home or business. In either case, it is wise to implement proper preventative maintenance against wildlife tampering and interference.

Common Damages Caused By Skunks

Skunks love to dig up lawns in search of juicy grubs, but they will also pillage your gardens and destroy your flowerbeds. They will also produce a foul, lingering smells left behind by their urine and droppings. If you have a chicken coop, you can rightly assume that skunks will be around to steal some eggs sooner than later. Furthermore, skunks are known carriers of several infectious diseases that can be easily transmitted to your dogs, cats, or worse, children. February through April is prime skunk breeding season, making sightings much more prevalent in Spring.

Here is how you can protect your property from skunk damages and intrusions:

🦨► Remove or Secure All Food and Water Sources

Skunks mostly want food and water. You will need to modify the exterior areas of your property to prevent skunks from gaining access to any food or water sources you might have, including pet food, gardens, and even trash.

🦨► Remove or Secure All Shelters

Remove or secure all possible shelter locations. This includes under your porch, crawl spaces, log piles, playhouses, sheds, barns, and hollowed trees. You can use chicken wire around your gardens, or plant marigolds around your flowerbeds.

🦨► Apply a Non-Toxic Animal Repellent

You can make your own non-toxic animal repellent spray and apply it around the perimeter of your property. Just be sure not to allow children or pets access to treated areas, as most recipes call for harsh ingredients like cayenne and menthol.

🦨► Contact a Wildlife Removal Service

Professional critter control is the best solution for nuisance animal problems because it is the most effective. It combines all of the above-mentioned strategies, plus adds in professional abatement materials and training.

Do you have nuisance skunks roaming around your house at night? Contact Smoky Wildlife Control at 615-610-0962 for safe and affordable skunk removal in Nashville, Tennessee. Request a free estimate or advice, anytime!

You Should Also Read:

The Common Signs of Bats in the House
The Top 4 Methods to Get Rid of Raccoons
FAQS About Animal Damages and Clean Up