Nuisance Concerns.
Nocturnal by nature, skunks are well known for their strong odor. Skunks frequently choose to live under human structures such as sheds, decks, or crawl spaces. A skunk in the area poses a constant threat to inquisitive pets, especially when dealing with young skunks.

Skunk Spray Warning.
Young skunks often practice spraying as they get used to their primary defensive weapon. Adult skunks can spray up to 15 feet and can spray both accurately and several times. When they spray they usually give warning by turning around and raising their tails. If one does this RUN FAST IMMEDIATELY! If you have not been sprayed by a skunk, take warning. What you smell in your car as you drive by a dead skunk is but a minor odour compared to the gagging, weeping and dreadfully painful eyes a person experiences when actually sprayed by a skunk.

Use Caution When Approaching a Skunk.
Skunks may be attracted inside a garage if the door has been left open and there is garbage inside. If this happens, enter the garage speaking in a low, soothing voice to make the skunk aware of your presence without startling it. Remove the garbage and sprinkle flour across the opening. Wait until dusk and check for footprints leaving the garage for confirmation. Garbage cans, composters and bird feeders must be animal-proof.

Skunk Prevention.
Decks should be closed in so that animals cannot get underneath, and garage doors should be securely closed.

Insects and grubs are also a significant food source for skunks and the presence of them in your lawn may cause skunks to come digging. To avoid this problem, use a non-toxic animal repellent in the fall to discourage animal activity.

Animal Removal.
The ONE AND ONLY WAY to take care of this problem is with trapping and removal of the animals. Call Westchester Wildlife for all skunk removals.