If you’ve ever caught a whiff of that unmistakable skunky smell near your home, chances are a striped intruder is hiding nearby. Learning how to get a skunk from under your house is crucial to protecting your family, pets, and property. This guide will walk you through expert-backed, humane methods to remove skunks and keep them out for good.
Signs There’s a Skunk Under Your House
Before taking action, it’s important to be sure you’re dealing with a skunk. Here are some signs:
- Persistent foul odor near vents or crawl spaces
- Holes in your yard or under structures
- Nocturnal noise like scratching, thumping, or low growling
- Droppings or tracks around the perimeter of your home
- Pet agitation near a particular area
These symptoms suggest a skunk has taken shelter under your home. Let’s now understand why they chose your house.
Why Skunks Choose to Nest Under Homes
Skunks seek out places that are:
- Dark and safe from predators
- Quiet and undisturbed during the day
- Warm during colder months
- Close to food sources like garbage, pet food, grubs, or compost
Your house’s crawl space might be the ideal den. Unfortunately, that also means they’re likely to return unless action is taken.
Is It Dangerous to Have a Skunk Living Under Your House?
Yes — while skunks aren’t typically aggressive, they can cause:
- Health risks through parasites or diseases (rabies, leptospirosis)
- Property damage from digging or chewing
- Horrible odors that seep into HVAC systems and interiors
- Potential for spraying if cornered
It’s best to handle the situation sooner rather than later. Let’s walk through the process.
Step-by-Step: How to Get a Skunk from Under Your House
### Step 1: Identify the Skunk’s Entry Point
Look for small dug-out holes, broken vent screens, or gaps in the foundation. Mark these spots. You’ll need them for setting traps or installing barriers.
### Step 2: Time Your Removal (Skunk Behavior Insights)
Skunks are nocturnal. They usually leave their den after dusk and return before sunrise. This gives you a window of time to act while the skunk is away.
### Step 3: Choose the Right Skunk Removal Method
There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. Let’s explore 5 effective, humane ways to evict them.
#### Method 1: Natural Repellents
These are great for mild infestations.
Options include:
- Citrus peels
- Ammonia-soaked rags (placed in a container with holes)
- Predator urine granules
- Strong-smelling soaps
Apply repellents daily near the entry point. Most skunks will abandon the den within a few days.
#### Method 2: Ultrasonic Animal Repellers
These motion-activated devices emit high-frequency sounds that skunks hate but are harmless to humans.
Place them near known entry points or den locations.
Recommended product: Havahart Ultrasonic Repeller
#### Method 3: One-Way Exclusion Door
This is ideal once the skunk leaves to forage.
- Install a one-way door over the entrance.
- The skunk exits but can’t get back in.
- Seal the hole permanently once you’re sure it’s empty (no babies inside).
#### Method 4: Humane Skunk Traps
If repellents don’t work, use a live trap baited with:
- Canned sardines
- Peanut butter on bread
- Fried chicken scraps
Warning: You may get sprayed. Always cover the trap with a towel and wear gloves. Check your local laws about releasing trapped animals.
#### Method 5: Call a Wildlife Control Professional
For infestations involving multiple skunks or baby skunks, hire experts.
They can:
- Trap and relocate safely
- Identify entry points
- Deodorize and disinfect the area
- Skunk-proof your home
Cleaning Up After a Skunk Infestation
Once the skunk is gone, it’s cleanup time.
Steps to clean safely:
- Wear gloves, a mask, and old clothes
- Remove all nesting materials
- Spray disinfectant (bleach + water mix works)
- Use activated charcoal or vinegar bowls to absorb odor
- Wash any affected clothing or materials separately
Persistent odors in HVAC ducts may require professional cleaning.
How to Skunk-Proof Your Home for the Future
### Seal All Entry Points
- Use steel mesh, not wood (they’ll chew through)
- Seal vents, foundation cracks, and under-deck openings
### Use Gravel or Wire Mesh Skirting
Line the base of porches and sheds with mesh buried 12 inches deep and bent outward. This deters digging.
### Keep Food Sources Away from the Yard
- Don’t leave pet food outside
- Use trash cans with locking lids
- Remove fallen fruits or birdseed
### Motion-Activated Lights and Sprinklers
Skunks hate surprises. These tools can discourage nighttime visitors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using poison – It’s illegal and dangerous to other animals
- Blocking the hole without checking inside – Traps skunks or babies
- Ignoring return behavior – Skunks may revisit if not properly excluded
- Trying to handle without gear or experience – Increases the chance of spraying or bites
When to Call a Professional
You should call wildlife control if:
- You suspect there are baby skunks
- The skunk is injured or aggressive
- The skunk won’t leave despite your efforts
- You’re uncomfortable with trapping or sealing entries
Cost of Skunk Removal Services
| Service Type | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Inspection | $75 – $150 |
| Humane Trapping & Removal | $200 – $500 |
| Sealing and Cleanup | $150 – $400 |
| Odor Neutralization | $100 – $300 |
Prices vary by location and severity.
Environmental & Legal Considerations
In many areas, killing or relocating skunks without a permit is illegal.
Check your state’s wildlife control website before acting.
Helpful resource: U.S. Fish & Wildlife Services – Skunk Management
FAQs
Can I remove a skunk without trapping it?
Yes, using natural repellents or a one-way exclusion door is often effective without needing traps.
What smell keeps skunks away?
Strong odors like citrus, ammonia, vinegar, and predator urine naturally repel skunks.
Will a skunk spray if I try to trap it?
Possibly. Approach with caution, use a covered trap, and avoid sudden movements.
How long will a skunk stay under my house?
Skunks often stay a few weeks to a few months, especially during breeding season. Prompt action is essential.
Are there laws about removing skunks myself?
Yes, some states restrict relocation or require a licensed handler. Always check with your local wildlife department.
Is it safe to use mothballs or ammonia for skunks?
Mothballs are toxic and ineffective long-term. Ammonia can help, but it should be used cautiously and not around children or pets.
Conclusion
Removing a skunk from under your house doesn’t have to be a nightmare. With the right strategy — whether repellents, traps, or professional help — you can restore peace (and scent) to your home. Just be sure to follow through with prevention steps to avoid repeat visits. If you ever feel unsure, don’t hesitate to call a wildlife expert.
