How To Deal With A Skunk Falling In a Window Well

Deforestation and the constant development of the modern world means that wildlife, including skunks, are being pushed out of their homes. Normally, skunks and other wildlife want to avoid people. Still, when people encroach on the animal's habitat, there will be times when interactions occur, which is when you need to call skunk removal in Niagara. One relatively common issue occurs when a skunk falls into a window well. Skunks are not known for having keen eyesight, so they can become victims of holes in the ground, especially at night with little light around your property. If you happen to stumble upon a skunk in one of your home's window wells, what do you do? Should you help?

Do Not Attempt a DIY Rescue

Can baby skunks spray? That might be the first question that comes to mind if you happen upon a skunk family in your window well. Depending on the age of the skunk, it might not have developed its defenses yet. Still, do not attempt to help even baby skunks. Skunks are wild animals, and as such, they are unpredictable and potentially dangerous. Additionally, skunks can carry diseases that can transfer to humans. Skunks can also have the rabies virus, so it is best to keep your distance. Even if you could safely create a ladder of some sort to help the skunk out of the well, how does that solve your wildlife problem? The skunk will still be somewhere around your property.

Do Not Investigate the Situation

There is a natural curiosity that happens when you find a trapped wild animal. Your instinct is to investigate the situation, to get a closer look at the animal. After all, how often have you gotten a close look at a skunk? However, you do not want to investigate a trapped skunk. The animal is already nervous and scared. Your presence will only make the situation worse. If you peek your head over the window well or look from inside your home, the skunk is likely going to spray. Even if you do not get hit, the spray is a powerful stench that will linger.

Do Protect Yourself, Children, Pets, and the Wildlife

If a skunk gets trapped in a window well on your property, the best thing you can do is to keep your distance. You will also want to ensure that your children and any pets also stay clear of the area. Trapped wildlife, even skunks, can become dangerous. A skunk's spray can also be dangerous if ingested. The best thing to do is remain indoors and call for help.

Do Call a Professional

The only option you have is to call a wildlife professional. A humane wildlife technician will be able to keep your family and the animal safe. When dealing with a trapped skunk, the worst thing you can do is aggravate the situation by being overly human. Humans are curious creatures and naturally intimidating to smaller species. Think about how you would feel if a giant suddenly tried to pick you up or started shoving boards or sticks at you. Sure, as a human, you know that the boards are meant to help the skunk out of a hole, but everything is perceived as a threat to the skunk. While you might want to help, you need to acknowledge your limitations. How much experience do you have handling wildlife? Most homeowners have zero experience. If you find a trapped skunk, walk away and contact Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control. The company will immediately dispatch a trained wildlife professional to assess and handle the situation, ensuring the health and wellness of all involved.