Wildlife Control: Skunks
Skunks are nocturnal mammals known for their distinctive black-and-white colouring and their ability to spray a pungent odour as a defence mechanism. They commonly invade yards, under decks, and crawl spaces, often digging in search of food or shelter. Professional wildlife control is essential to safely and effectively manage skunks while minimizing risks to humans and pets.

Identification:
Skunks are medium-sized mammals, typically 20–30 inches long (including the bushy tail) and weighing 4–10 pounds. They are easily identified by their black fur with white stripes or spots, varying by species. Signs of skunk activity include:

• A strong, musky odour, especially near crawl spaces or decks.
• Small, cone-shaped holes in the yard, indicative of digging for grubs or insects.
• Tracks showing five toes with visible claw marks.
• Skunk droppings containing insect parts, seeds, or berries.

Life Cycle:
Skunks mate in late winter, and females give birth to litters of 4–8 kits between May and June. Kits stay with their mother through summer, learning survival skills. By fall, they become independent. In the wild, skunks live an average of 2–4 years, although urban environments may offer better survival rates due to reduced predation.

Diseases:
Skunks can transmit diseases and parasites that pose health hazards to humans and animals, including:

• Rabies: Skunks are one of the primary carriers of rabies in North America.
• Leptospirosis: Spread through urine-contaminated water or soil, this bacterial infection can infect humans and pets.
• Distemper: A viral disease that affects pets, often confused with rabies.
• Intestinal Parasites: Roundworms, tapeworms, and other parasites may be found in skunk droppings.

Professional Control Methods:
Professional skunk control focuses on humane and effective techniques to resolve infestations and prevent future problems:

1. Inspection and Identification: Wildlife experts assess the property, locating skunk dens, entry points, and signs of activity.
2. Humane Trapping: Live traps are used to safely capture skunks. Traps are handled with care to avoid spraying, and captured skunks are relocated in accordance with local wildlife laws.
3. Exclusion and Prevention: After removal, entry points are sealed, and exclusion barriers are installed around decks, sheds, and crawl spaces to prevent future denning.
4. Odour Removal and Sanitation: Contaminated areas are cleaned, deodorized, and disinfected to eliminate health risks and odours caused by skunk spray or droppings.
5. Homeowner Guidance: Experts provide tips to reduce attractants, such as securing garbage bins, eliminating food sources like pet food and birdseed, and controlling grubs in the lawn to minimize digging.

Professional skunk control ensures humane handling, protects public health, and prevents property damage, offering a safe and sustainable solution to skunk-related issues.