Skunk Removal: A Guide to Keeping Your Home Safe (and Smell-Free)


Finding an animal in the attic is stressful enough, but when it’s a skunk on your property, things can get messy fast. Between the digging, the damage, and of course, the smell, it’s not a problem you want hanging around. The good news? With the right approach and a focus on humane wildlife removal, you can solve the issue safely while protecting both your home and the animal.


What Attracts Skunks to Your Property

Skunks aren’t trying to bother anyone, they’re just looking for food and shelter. If your yard offers either, you might be rolling out the welcome mat without even knowing it.


A few common skunk magnets include:

  • Pet food left outside (they’ll gladly help themselves to kibble).

  • Open trash cans or compost piles.

  • Grubs and insects in your lawn (a midnight buffet for hungry skunks).

  • Cozy spaces under decks, sheds, or porches that make perfect hiding spots.


Skunks can squeeze into surprisingly tight gaps. Even a space that looks too small could be an open invitation.


Signs You Have a Skunk Problem

So how do you know if a skunk has moved in? Other than the unmistakable smell, of course.


Look for these signs:

  • Cone-shaped holes in your lawn from digging for grubs.

  • Tracks with five toes (raccoons have a similar print, but skunks drag their tails).

  • Droppings near food sources or den entrances.

  • Strong, lingering odor, especially near sheds, decks, or crawl spaces.


Here’s a quick comparison to help spot the difference between common critters:

Intruder

Typical Signs

Common Hideouts

Skunk

Cone-shaped holes, strong odor

Under decks, sheds, porches

Raccoon

Trash tipped over, paw prints

Attics, chimneys, crawlspaces

Opossum

Scattered food, droppings

Garages, attics, sheds


Critter Hero Tip: Take our quick quiz to identify the animals in your attic and learn the next steps for safe, humane removal.


Why Skunks Are a Risk to Homes and Health

Sure, the smell is bad enough. But skunks can cause bigger problems:

  • They can spray pets (and good luck getting that smell out).

  • They may carry diseases like rabies.

  • Their digging can damage lawns and gardens.

  • Nesting under your porch or deck can weaken the structure over time.


It’s not just a nuisance, it’s a problem you want to deal with quickly.


How to Safely Get Rid of Skunks

Trying to chase a skunk out yourself can backfire. One wrong move and you (or your dog) might be wearing that infamous scent for days.


A safer approach is to:

  1. Identify the entry point where the skunk is hiding.

  2. Remove food sources like trash or pet food.

  3. Use bright lights or mild deterrents (skunks are shy and prefer dark, quiet spaces).

  4. Call in a professional if the skunk is settled in or you’re not comfortable handling it.


Professional Skunk Removal vs. DIY Methods

You might be tempted to set a trap yourself. But here’s the reality:

  • DIY: Cheaper up front, but risky. You’ll need the right type of trap, know how to use it legally, and brace yourself for what happens if you accidentally trap the wrong animal.

  • Professional: More reliable, safer, and faster. Experts know how to handle skunk removal without stressing them (or you), and they’ll make sure the problem doesn’t return.


Many homeowners call us after trying DIY and realizing it’s trickier than it looks. Skunks are unpredictable, and the last thing you want is a cornered animal spraying inside your garage.


Humane Skunk Removal and Relocation Options

Nobody wants to harm the animal. Skunks are just doing what comes naturally. That’s why humane skunk removal is always the best choice.


At Critter Hero, we:

  • Use safe, live traps approved for wildlife.

  • Relocate skunks to suitable habitats away from homes.

  • Seal off the problem areas to keep them from returning.


It’s better for you and better for the skunk.


How to Skunk-Proof Your Yard and Home

Once the skunk is gone, you’ll want to keep it that way. Here’s how:

  • Secure trash cans with tight-fitting lids.

  • Bring pet food indoors at night.

  • Fill holes and seal off gaps under porches, decks, or sheds.

  • Treat your lawn for grubs to remove a food source.

  • Add motion-sensor lights—skunks don’t love surprises.


Think of it as locking your doors at night, but for your yard.


Get Rid of Skunks the Safe Way

If the smell is strong, you see digging around your home, or you’ve spotted a skunk nesting nearby, it’s time to bring in help.

Critter Hero specializes in safe, humane skunk removal. We’ll handle the dirty work, relocate the animal responsibly, and help you skunk-proof your home so you can breathe easy again. Give us a call today at +1 [289] 855-4376 and take back your home with confidence.