Prefer open areas with a mix of habitats like forests and grasslands.
Omnivorous; they eat plants, insects, small mammals, eggs, and garbage.
Breeds in early spring; gestation lasts about two months, litters of 4-7 kits.
Canada is home to two primary types of skunks: the striped skunk and the less common spotted skunk. Striped skunks are found across the country, known for their white stripes. Spotted skunks are smaller, with unique dot or streak patterns, mostly found in southern British Columbia. Both types are nocturnal and adept at adapting to urban and suburban environments, often seeking shelter under decks and sheds.
Skunks can cause significant problems when they invade residential areas. Their most notorious issue is their defensive spray, which has a foul odor that can linger for days and cause irritation. Skunks also dig up lawns searching for insects, raid garbage cans, and eat garden produce. They can damage foundations when burrowing under porches and decks and are potential carriers of diseases like rabies.
Striped skunks are small, stout animals with black and white coloring, featuring distinctive white stripes running down their backs. They grow between 50 cm to 80 cm (20 to 31 inches) and weigh around 3 kg (6.6 pounds). Spotted skunks are smaller, with white markings in dots or streaks. Both have five digits on each paw and front paws that function similarly to human hands, aiding in digging and foraging.
While skunks pose little physical threat to humans, their spray can cause significant discomfort and lingering odors. They can damage lawns and gardens and spread diseases such as rabies. Homeowners should be cautious of skunks due to their potential to cause structural damage and health risks. Professional pest control services are recommended for humane and effective skunk removal to ensure safety and prevent further issues.
Skunks are attracted to residential areas primarily for food and shelter. They are opportunistic feeders, drawn to garbage, pet food, bird feeders, and gardens. They often find shelter under porches, decks, and sheds. Urban environments offer abundant food sources and hiding places, making them attractive habitats for skunks, especially when natural food sources are scarce or during harsh weather.
Preventing skunk invasions involves removing food sources and securing potential shelters. Ensure trash cans have tight-fitting lids, remove pet food and bird feeders, and compost piles should be securely covered. Seal gaps under decks and porches and install fences that extend underground to prevent burrowing. Regularly inspect your property for signs of skunks and take measures to eliminate their hiding spots and food sources.
Pestcheck’s skunk inspection involves a thorough search for skunks and their hiding spots around your property, such as under decks, sheds, and crawl spaces. Our team meticulously documents all signs of skunk activity and entry points. This comprehensive inspection provides the necessary information to create an effective, targeted plan to safely remove skunks and prevent future invasions.
Pestcheck’s skunk control strategy employs humane and eco-friendly methods to remove skunks from your property. Our trained staff use live traps to humanely capture and remove skunks, then sanitize affected areas. Most importantly, any wildlife animals caught are released back into the wild. This approach also fortifies entry points to prevent future invasions, maintaining a secure environment.
Pestcheck’s follow-up services include regular inspections to monitor for any signs of returning skunks. Our methods adapt to seasonal changes and wildlife activity, ensuring continuous protection. If skunks come back, so do we, promptly addressing any new issues and reinforcing preventive measures. This proactive approach keeps your property skunk-free year-round, providing lasting peace of mind and security.
Check out our blogs and articles to learn more about keeping your home pest-free and your family and pets safe! We’re sharing our expert advice and latest news from behind-the-scenes.
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