When spring arrives in Ohio, it’s not just blooming flowers and warmer days that make an appearance—wildlife comes out in full force, too. Among the critters waking up from winter hibernation, skunks are on the lookout for safe spots to raise their young. For many of them, the space under your deck or shed can seem like the perfect nursery. Unfortunately, what’s ideal for skunks can mean headaches for you.

If you suspect a skunk family has taken up residence under your deck, don’t panic. While the sight (and smell!) of skunks might be concerning, there are safe, humane ways to deal with the situation. Here’s everything you need to know about why they’re there, how to recognize their presence, and how to address the issue ethically and effectively.

Why Do Skunks Love Your Deck?

To a skunk, your deck isn’t just a deck—it’s prime, cozy real estate. Skunks naturally seek out dark, quiet, and protected spaces to shelter and raise their babies. The underside of a deck provides all of that and more.

Loose soil, gaps, or openings around the base make it easy for skunks to dig in and set up their home. Once underneath, they’re shielded from predators and harsh weather, making it the perfect place to care for their little ones through the spring.

By understanding what makes your property so appealing, you can take steps to prevent skunks from moving in next year. But first, how can you tell if there’s already a family living under your deck?

Signs You Have Skunks Under Your Deck

Skunks don’t usually come with a welcome sign, but there are clear indicators if they’ve moved in. Keep an eye (and nose) out for these telltale signs.

1. That Unmistakable Smell

The musky, pungent odor of skunks is their signature trait. If you notice a lingering smell near your deck or in the surrounding area—especially at night—it’s a strong sign you might have some stinky guests.

2. Noises at Night

Skunks are nocturnal, so you’re more likely to hear them after sundown. Scratchy sounds, rustling, or even soft squeaks coming from under your deck are good indicators of a skunk family settling in.

3. Holes or Loose Soil

Look at the ground surrounding your deck. If you spot fresh digging or small holes, it’s possible skunks have been burrowing to create a safe space for their young.

4. Trash Troubles

Have your garbage bins been knocked over or rummaged through? While raccoons often get blamed, skunks are also known for scavenging backyard trash for an easy meal.

Noticing these signs early can help you address the situation before it becomes a bigger problem.

Why It’s Important NOT to Disturb Them

If you’ve confirmed there’s a skunk family under your deck, you might be tempted to handle the situation yourself. But disturbing them can make things worse—for you, your home, and the skunks.

Mother skunks are highly protective. If they feel threatened, they won’t hesitate to release their spray as a defense, and everyone knows how unpleasant that can be. Worse, trying to evict them could separate the mother from her babies, leaving the kits vulnerable and unable to survive on their own.

Additionally, a disturbed skunk family may scatter, making it even harder to remove them safely. To avoid these risks, it’s best to consult professionals who can step in with the right tools and expertise.

Humane and Safe Skunk Removal

At Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control, we understand the importance of removing animals safely and ethically. Our methods prioritize both your family’s comfort and the well-being of the critters under your deck. Here’s how we approach skunk removal the humane way.

1. One-Way Doors

We use specialized one-way doors that allow skunks to leave their shelter but prevent them from reentering. This approach ensures the family relocates on their own without harm or undue stress.

2. No Trapping or Relocating

Unlike traditional methods that involve trapping, our techniques focus on keeping skunks and their babies safe. Relocation can often be fatal for wildlife, so we avoid it entirely.

3. Sealing Entry Points

Once the skunks have vacated, we’ll seal off any gaps, holes, or weak spots around your deck, ensuring that future families don’t move in.

By using ethical removal techniques, we give skunks the best chance to find a new home while protecting yours.

Preventing Skunks from Moving Back

Once you’ve handled the current issue, it’s time to think about prevention. A few small changes can make all the difference in keeping your deck skunk-free in the future.

Seal Off Your Deck

Check for openings around the base and use durable materials like mesh or sturdy wood to block access. A properly enclosed deck is far less appealing to skunks.

Secure Your Trash Bins

Invest in heavy-duty, tightly lidded garbage bins. Reducing access to food sources makes your property a lot less attractive to these scavengers.

Maintain Your Yard

Skunks love hiding in overgrown bushes, piles of leaves, or debris. Keep your yard clean and trimmed to discourage them from sticking around.

Install Motion-Activated Lights

Bright lights can scare off nocturnal animals like skunks. Motion-activated lights are a simple yet effective deterrent to keep them at bay.

Schedule Regular Inspections

If you’re unsure about how vulnerable your property is, professional inspections can identify potential problem areas before wildlife does.

A little prevention goes a long way—taking these steps now will save you from dealing with the hassle of evicting wildlife later.

Trust Skedaddle for Skunk Solutions

Spring in Ohio should be about enjoying the sunshine and fresh air—not worrying about the smell of skunks or a surprise family under your deck. If you suspect a skunk problem at your Franklinton home, Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control is here to help.

We specialize in safe, humane removal methods designed to protect both your property and the animals. From identifying entry points to sealing them up after removal, we handle every step with expertise and care.

Don’t wait for the problem to escalate. Reach out to Skedaddle for trusted skunk removal solutions in Franklinton. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and reclaim your yard this spring!