It can stink when skunks come into your yard - quite literally. As you are likely aware, skunks have a spray that has a pungent aroma. This stinky spray can create a problem in more than one way. Let's take a look at the problems skunks present, what you can do to prevent these problems, and what role pest control in Orange County plays in solving skunk problems.

Where Do Skunks Like To Hide?

It is important to understand where skunks hide because it can give you some insight into what is needed to prevent unwanted issues and how these unwanted issues can impact your life.

Underneath Sheds

It is common to find skunks hiding under sheds. These animals dig soil away from shed foundations and get right underneath. It doesn't matter if a shed is on concrete or a wood support structure. In the wild, skunks hide under stumps, logs, and large rocks. So it only makes sense that they would get underneath sheds.

If they get under your shed, you could startle a skunk during the day by entering your shed. This could cause it to spray. But the more likely scenario is that a skunk will roam your property at night and run into you while you're putting garbage out or doing some other activity in your yard. This can cause you to get sprayed. It is also possible for skunks to be a general nuisance by knocking trash receptacles over and ripping holes in plastic garbage bags.

Underneath Decks

If you have a closed-in void beneath your deck, a skunk can burrow underneath and get into the void. They'll also get underneath open decks that have lots of leaves to provide protection and cover. This can lead to the same problems as having a skunk under your shed. It may also lead to a skunk smell entering your home and filling every level from bottom to top.

Crawlspaces

Some homes have a crawlspace underneath. This is the perfect environment for a skunk. It is like a closed-in deck void, only better. In this space, skunks present the same issues as being under a shed or deck.

Piles Of Wood

There are many locations a skunk may hide in your yard, and getting underneath wood piles is a preference. This might be dead branches you've collected, scrap wood left over from a construction project, construction materials being stored before a project, stacked fire pit wood (if the stack is large enough), and stacked wood pallets. When you have skunks in your yard, they'll present the same issues as when they hide under your shed.  

a skunk by the foundation of a house

What To Do If You Have Been Sprayed By A Skunk

Your chances of being sprayed are low. It is important to point that out first. Skunks spray in self-defense. If you don't seem like a threat, a skunk won't spray you. Since these animals commonly hang out near humans, they're not generally frightened by us.

It is more likely that your dog or cat will get sprayed. But, in any case, if you are sprayed, it is good to know the remedy. Wildlife management experts recommend the following mixture to remove the scent of skunk spray:

  • 1 quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide
  • ¼ cup of baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon of liquid dish soap

If the spray has gotten into your eyes, it is recommended that you flush your eyes with cold water. Keep in mind that skunk spray is not toxic. It is just super unpleasant.

Ways To Deter Skunks In Orange County

There are a few ways you can prevent skunks from coming into your yard. They are connected to the information we've shared so far.

  • You can keep skunks from getting under your shed or deck by installing fence material. Be sure to install it at least 1 foot below ground level. This will deter skunks from burrowing underneath. It may also be necessary to create a structure that supports the fence material. Keeping a skunk out is more difficult than keeping a rodent or some other small animal out.
  • You can keep skunks out of your crawlspace by having your crawl space encapsulated. This type of improvement for your home will go far beyond keeping skunks out.
  • You can deter skunks from hiding under wood sources if you elevate them. Skunks have a preference for creating a den that is near the soil.
  • Make sure your trash is covered and that your receptacles can't be easily knocked over. Some residents use bungee cords or build a wood structure to keep receptacles upright.

These simple steps can go a long way toward preventing skunk problems. If you're currently dealing with a skunk in your yard, we recommend getting wildlife pest control.  

Who To Call For Wildlife Pest Control In Orange County

Residents sometimes call animal control for skunk problems but this government service is geared toward domesticated animals, like dogs and cats. They're also the people you call if you have a mountain lion in your backyard. For pest animals, contact HomeShield Pest Control. We offer wildlife control services and wildlife removal in Orange County. We provide the home pest control services you're looking for.