What To Do If You Encounter a Skunk?

Skunks are beautiful animals, but you never want to be face to rear with one. Unfortunately, because the animal is a familiar neighbourhood forager, there is a chance, though small, you might encounter one near your home. Therefore, if you suspect skunks are on your property, it is best to contact skunk removal in Niagara to limit the chance of any encounters. However, if you do encounter a skunk, there are specific actions you should take to limit your risk of being sprayed. It is important to note that skunks do not spray easily; they must be startled or threatened to resort to spraying an intruder and stranger.

1. Encountered in the Open

Skunks are nocturnal animals, so it would most likely occur at night if you were to encounter one in the open. The night is actually beneficial for you because skunks have poor eyesight. If you see a skunk coming in your direction, the best thing you can do is stand perfectly still. Once you figure out where the animal is heading, step slowly out of its path. This scenario is improbable because skunks prefer to travel by cover, meaning they likely walk under bushes and trees. If you are on a sidewalk or open path, the odds of coming across a skunk are slim.

2. Encountered in Its Den

A skunk den can be located anywhere with adequate cover. The animal often prefers burrowing under existing structures like decks and sheds, but more often, it will find a space near trees, stumps, or rock and woodpiles. The entrance to the den is rarely left open. The animal prefers to conceal the entrance and avoid any risks of predators. A den acts as a central point for skunks, with the animal rarely wandering far from it. Never purposefully approach a skunk den. They are wild animals with potent defences, and they will use whatever they have to defend their home.  Unfortunately, because skunks are experts at camouflaging their dens, it is common to stumble across one accidentally. If you happen to stumble across a den, you want to avoid any sudden movements or sounds. You want to step away slowly, trying hard not to wake or startle the animal.

3. Encountered Near Your Home

Because skunks often build dens under porches, decks, sheds, and other outdoor structures, it is possible you will see them waddling through your yard in the evening. It is best to leave the animal be, providing a wide berth so as not to startle it.  You will want to investigate a little during the day to see if you can find its den, but be careful. It is often better to leave the investigations to the professionals.  Approaching a den or a skunk can result in all sorts of unpleasantness, including you getting sprayed. The best thing you can do is contact a wildlife professional when you see a skunk making a habit of roaming your property because this likely means their den is somewhere close. When you contact a wildlife control company, they will send a team to assess the property and determine what can be done. Next, the team will present you with a plan and a rough estimate of the work that needs doing. If you agree with the terms, the service will schedule the removal. Have you seen a skunk foraging your property in the evening or come across a little critter while going for your nightly jog? If so, the animal may be living somewhere on or around your property. Contact Skedaddle Humane Wildlife Control to schedule a property assessment and resolve your skunk problem.