Skunks are notorious for destroying lawns, contaminating outdoor spaces, and defending themselves with a noxious spray. Getting sprayed even just once by these pests can result in overwhelming odour and damage to your skin, clothing, and property.
Additionally, their foul odour can be extremely difficult to remove, often requiring enzymatic cleaners, ozone treatments, and other specialized odour-neutralizing techniques to eliminate the foul smell completely. While some homeowners resort to DIY skunk removal techniques, it’s often unsafe and subject to strict legal restrictions.
Understanding the Risks of DIY Skunk Removal
Trapping skunks in Canada is subject to strict guidelines to ensure the humane treatment of animals. In most provinces, including Ontario, once a skunk is captured, it must be released within a limited distance from the point of capture. Additionally, traps must meet specific humane standards to prevent injury or suffering.
Failure to adhere to these conditions may lead to hefty fines, legal penalties, and potential charges under provincial wildlife protection laws. Mishandling wildlife can also result in injury or the spread of diseases such as rabies, which is why trapping skunks without professional experience is highly discouraged.
Why Professional Skunk Removal is the Safer, Smarter Option
Professional wildlife removal services offer a faster, safer, and legally compliant solution compared to DIY attempts. Licensed technicians have the training, tools, and expertise needed to trap and relocate skunks humanely, while also advising homeowners on how to skunk-proof their properties for long-term protection.
Additionally, opting for professional skunk pest control over DIY skunk removal methods means you can avoid the stress of handling permits, relocation limits, and other legal complexities required under Ontario law. Professionals make the process simple, safe, and fully compliant.
How to Get Rid of Skunks in Your Yard Following a Professional Skunk Removal
The work doesn’t end after getting professional skunk removal services. Skunks may still return without proper prevention measures in place.
While trapping skunks is typically not recommended, the best skunk removal method is to proactively discourage them from settling in your yard. Some effective ways to get rid of skunks from your property for good include:
- Secure Garbage and Food Sources: Skunks are scavengers and will return to places where food is easy to find. Use animal-proof garbage bins with tight-fitting lids, avoid leaving food waste or compost exposed, and bring pet food and water dishes inside at night. Even bird seed or fallen fruit can attract them, so staying on top of cleanup is key.
- Block Off Access to Sheltered Den Sites: Common nesting areas include spaces under decks, porches, sheds, or crawlspaces. Use galvanized wire mesh (buried at least 12 inches deep) to seal these areas off. Be sure to check that no animals are already living inside before closing them off, as sealing a skunk inside could lead to property damage and aggressive behaviour.
- Use Motion-Activated Lights or Sprinklers: Skunks are nocturnal and prefer dark, quiet environments. Motion-sensor floodlights or water sprinklers placed around high-risk areas like gardens, decks, and sheds can help startle and discourage them from returning. These devices offer a humane and hands-off deterrent method.
- Apply Natural or Commercial Repellents: Strong-smelling deterrents such as ammonia, vinegar, citrus peels, or predator urine can make areas less inviting to skunks. Apply repellents near former den sites or entry points. For more lasting results, you may want to use commercial skunk repellents that are rain-resistant and formulated for longer protection.
- Keep Landscaping Clean and Trimmed: Skunks love overgrown, cluttered areas where they can hide during the day. Keep grass cut low, trim back dense shrubs, and remove piles of leaves, wood, or yard debris. A clean and open yard eliminates both food sources (like insects) and shelter options, making it less appealing overall.
- Repair and Maintain Outdoor Structures: Inspect your fences, shed walls, foundation edges, and deck boards for signs of damage or gaps. Skunks are capable diggers and can squeeze through surprisingly small spaces. Reinforce weak points and consider adding underground barriers in areas where skunks have previously entered.
- Conduct Regular Yard Inspections: Make it a habit to walk your property every few weeks to look for signs of digging, tracks, or entry points. Early detection is one of the best ways to prevent re-infestation. If you notice burrows, odour, or overturned soil, contact a pest control specialist for a prompt assessment.
Knowing about proper skunk control techniques is essential before attempting any removal strategies. You can learn more about the basics of skunk behaviour and humane control methods here.
Trust Pestend Mississauga’s Skunk Pest Control Services
At Pestend Mississauga, our team conducts a detailed property assessment to locate active skunk dens and potential hiding spots. After safely removing all skunks using ethical and proven trapping methods, we seal off every potential re-entry point.
From buried wire mesh under porches to blocking off crawlspaces and foundation gaps, we go beyond removal to deliver long-term results. With over ten years of local experience, we understand how to keep skunks out—for good.
