Natural Remedies
When homeowners realize there is a skunk problem on their property, they often make the mistake of trying to handle it without calling a professional first. Some property owners try natural remedies that are touted as skunk deterrents in the hope of saving money or solving the problem quickly. In reality, these repellents may work for the short-term, but they often don't address the root of their skunk problem.
Natural remedies use scented ingredients from the pantry or cleaning cabinet to deter skunks. One natural fix many homeowners turn to is the peels from citrus fruits such as lemons, oranges and limes. Another scent that bothers them is the combination of cayenne and hot peppers. Unfortunately, unless you have a large number of peels and gallons of the homemade remedies, they are unlikely to deter a determined skunk.
Store-Bought Solutions
There are also products designed to deter wildlife that can be found at grocery or hardware stores. Companies that specialize in insect and animal repellents make different items designed to keep skunks out of your yard or property. In the insect repellent aisle at a retail store, you may come across liquid skunk spray. Most of these formulas aren't specifically indicated for skunks. Instead, they are often general animal repellent sprays to use on garbage cans, plants and woodpiles. Another option is a granular repellent solution. This is similar to a retail spray but consists of dry pellets. It's necessary to sprinkle the granular solution all around the property and on top of places where wild animals may burrow. Like the sprays, these products are generally geared towards all wild animals that may be a nuisance.Household Tips
Homeowners' best chance at deterring skunks is to make some changes to their property and yard to make it as unappealing to skunks as possible. One resolution that may work better to solve a long-term skunk infestation is to add motion-detecting lighting around the backyard and perimeter of the property. Bright lights may deter some shy skunks from making your garden or lawn their home.
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It's also necessary to make sure there aren't any items that are attracting skunks or other wild animals to your property. Trash should always be secured and stored in garbage cans with lid, any pet food should not be kept outdoors, bird feeders should be kept clean and tidy, and freshwater sources should be limited.
