Loose Dirt: Burrowing Animals and Why They Love to Live and Poop in Your Crawlspace
Did someone say real estate?
Skunks.
Few animal’s names strike wide-eyed concern in the faces of homeowners, when uttered, than the word “skunks.”
The damage they can do is so unique. To permanently ruin wood and cloth with the smell of a secreted oil. To have them underneath a shed, a workshop, an A/C unit or God forbid, your HOUSE is a deeply stressful event.
A little background first:
Skunks belong to the family Mephitidae and are known for their distinctive black and white coloration. In North America, the most common species include the striped skunk (Mephitis mephitis) and the spotted skunk (Spilogale putorius).
The striped skunk is recognizable by its black fur with two white stripes running down its back, it has a sturdy build, reaching lengths of 20 to 30 inches (51 to 76 cm) and weighing between 4 to 10 pounds (1.8 to 4.5 kg).
The spotted skunk is smaller in size and has a more agile build. It features a black coat with white spots or broken stripes, making it distinguishable from its striped cousin.
Both are widely distributed across the continent, from Canada to Mexico.
We understand the challenges of having a skunk under your house or shed and are here to provide you with a few practical solutions. Let's dive in and tackle this situation together!
Assess the Situation: To address the skunk issue effectively, start by identifying the entry points the skunk is using to access your house or shed. Thoroughly inspect the perimeter of the slab or crawlspace and seal any holes or gaps with durable materials like hardware cloth or concrete. This will prevent further entry and limit their access to your property. WARNING: If you suspect that skunks are already under your structure, DO NOT SEAL THEM IN! Call Cason Wildlife MGMT immediately.
Skunk-Proofing Measures: To make your property less attractive to skunks, remove any potential food sources. Secure your trash cans using animal-proof lids and store them in a secure location. Avoid leaving pet food outside and clean up fallen fruit or birdseed regularly.
Modify the Environment: Make your property less appealing for skunks by removing hiding spots. Clear away brush piles, dense vegetation, and debris near your house or shed. This reduces their preferred habitats and encourages them to find alternative areas.
Seek Professional Assistance: If the skunk situation becomes overwhelming or poses a threat, it's advisable to contact a licensed wildlife professional or animal control agency like Cason Wildlife MGMT. These experts have the necessary knowledge and equipment to handle skunk removal safely and efficiently.
Remember, when dealing with skunks, it's important to prioritize your safety and avoid approaching or trapping them yourself. Skunks may spray when they feel threatened, so it's best to leave the handling to professionals who are trained in wildlife management.
Cason Wildlife MGMT is here to support you throughout the process, offering expert advice and professional assistance when needed. Stay informed, take preventative measures, and remember that professional help is just a call away.
