Barrie is a beautiful city on the shores of Kempenfelt Bay. It is a bustling district with a wonderful atmosphere, which includes wildlife. While most people appreciate their four-legged and winged neighbours, many are weary of the skunks. While most facts about skunks support them as cute and timid creatures, they should remain at a distance from people. Call skunk removal services if you have a skunk on your property or suspect one.

The facts can portray skunks as somewhat docile critters, which they are — they would much rather avoid a fight than start one — but they will defend themselves if threatened like any wild animal. Most trouble with skunks stems from accidental interactions, so prevention is important. Discover several interesting facts about the species and why you should keep them away from your property. 

Things Every Homeowner Should Know About Skunks

Hiring skunk removal in Barrie for skunk problems is the best way to avoid potential issues between pets and family. The animals are known for their rather pungent and unique defence mechanism, but homeowners should also understand the animals will scratch and bite. Learning about the things that attract the animal and the common signs of it on your property can help limit the potential for interactions, keeping you, your family, and your pets safe.

Understanding What Attracts Skunks

As foragers, skunks are not picky eaters; they can find a suitable meal in the trash if necessary. Still, like all wildlife, they have a preferred diet. A skunk’s favourite foods include berries, other fruits, corn, seeds, worms, and insects. Other potential favourites are pet food and fallen human food.

A property that has an abundance of any of the above foods can attract several types of wildlife, especially skunks. Homeowners must assess their property’s advantages to wildlife, including nutrients from gardens, fruit trees, and bird feeders. Knowing what a skunk is looking for on your property helps you create a yard that is less attractive to it.

Knowing the Signs of a Skunk Infestation

One of the most interesting things about skunks is they are not as sneaky as you might think they are. People often assume that because they don’t see them too often, skunks are like ninjas, capable of popping out where you least expect them. In truth, skunks leave many clues and trails. There aren’t many sightings on any given day because the animal is nocturnal and tries to keep to itself.

Still, when a skunk is on your property, there are several potential signs. The most obvious sign is the skunk’s odour. The smell is obnoxious and off-putting, but just because you can smell it does not mean the skunk is in your yard.

A clear sign that the animal has been in your yard is the presence of paw prints, feces, and holes. Skunks have five toes, which is the key differentiator from cat prints. Skunk feces also look like cats, but it will usually have seeds in it. Finally, skunks will leave behind half-moon-style holes about 7cm to 10cm from looking for insects and worms.

Learning the Health Risks of a Skunk Infestation

Homeowners and well-meaning individuals must never forget that skunks are wild animals, making them potentially dangerous. The animal can carry and transmit several diseases, including rabies — though rare. Do not try to learn how to get rid of a skunk alone. Hire a professional service.

Hire Skedaddle For Humane Skunk Removal Services

Knowing the above facts about skunks does not prepare you for DIY skunk removal. DIY wildlife control is not advisable. It is dangerous. If you have a skunk on your property or suspect a den site, contact Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control and schedule a property inspection. The service can also provide consultations about prevention methods.