Skunk Problems

HOW TO DETER A SKUNK


I am going to outline below the steps to take to get a skunk to vacate from a den it has created. If you follow these steps, the animal almost always leaves on its own. The steps are as follows:
  1. Use mothballs to “fill” inside the opening. You can also try using cut up Irish Spring soap, Peppermint Oil extract and/or Castor Oil. In addition, if you have a mechanic’s drop light, you can put it as far into the opening as possible. Leave the light on 24 hours a day. Make sure there are no flammable materials nearby that can be affected by the heat of the bulb.
  2. Soak several rags or towels with one of the following-ammonia, bleach or vinegar. Then use the rags to “plug” or stuff the opening of the hole. This is done to monitor the activity in and out of the hole.
  3. For the next several days, the mothballs and rag might be kicked or pushed out of the hole. Just put the items back in place because it takes several days for the animal to catch on.
  4. If you have 4-5 consecutive days of no activity around the hole, it is safe to say that the animal has vacated that spot. Now you can safely go ahead and permanently block off the opening to prevent the animal(s) from causing the same problem later on.
  5. To block off the opening, pound into the ground 2 foot sections of steel rebar. Make sure the posts are flush against the concrete and leave enough above ground to block off the opening. Space the bars no more than 1 ½ inches apart. You can purchase the rebar at Menards or Home Depot in the fencing section; sold in pre-cut bundles.
It is important that this is done in a timely manner. If you are unable to permanently block off the opening right away, then use other heavy objects (i.e. bricks, paving stones, etc.) to prevent entry until a more permanent barricade can be installed. It is very rare that an animal will not leave after following these steps. If you have tried these steps and given it at least 10 days to work, then contact Animal Control (847-588-6508).

Living with Wildlife

Humane Society Skunk Advice