Skunks
{Mephitis mephitis}
Skunks are a type of mammal belonging to the family Mephitidae. They are quite recognizable with their distinctive white striped black bodies, though some skunks will have color combinations of brown or red with cream or almost orange-colored stripes. Skunks will shoot an unpleasant-smelling liquid from their anal glands when they feel threatened. This liquid is what gives them their reputation as being smelly critters and can make them undesirable to interact with in any way.
Are Skunks Dangerous?
In addition to the liquid they spray at potential
threats, skunks present health and safety issues
when they move onto your property. The odor
produced by this liquid can take up to three
weeks to dissipate with ventilation but may last
for months or years if untreated; no one wants
that ruining the enjoyment of their property.
Additionally, skunks carry diseases such as rabies
and parasitic pests like fleas and ticks, which can
drop off around your property, triggering further
infestation issues. A scratch or bite from a skunk
warrants immediate medical attention to ensure
no transmission of any serious diseases or
illnesses.
Why Do I Have A Skunk
Problem?
If you notice a persistent problem with skunks,
the chances are that you have factors attracting
these pests to your property. Like most other
pests and wildlife critters, skunks look for areas
that provide easy access to food, water, and
shelter. Carefully evaluate your property for
these factors, making sure to stay clear of any
skunks that may be hiding out. For help identifving why skunks are so attracted to your property, contact Running Wild at the first signs of an infestation.
Where will I find
Skunks?
Skunks are nocturnal creatures and love to hide
out in dark, secluded areas during the day. Once
they move onto your property, you will likely find
skunks hiding out under tree stumps, in holes
often called dens, underground, or underneath
overgrown trees, shrubs, or bushes. Skunks may
also invade basements, crawl spaces, the area
under decks and patios, or garages in order to
secure a safe, dark hiding spot.
How Do I Get Rid Of
Skunks?
Getting rid of skunks is something the
professionals at Running Wild should handle. Our
team can locate the skunks and provide safe,
humane wildlife removal. We protect the
skunks as we effectively remove them from your
property, allowing you to reclaim a safe, stink-
free space and providing relocation of the skunks
to a more suitable living area.
How Can I Prevent Skunks In The Future?
To prevent skunks in the future, follow these easy
skunk prevention tips:
-Properly secure outdoor trash containers
with tight-fitting lids and use tightly sealed
trash bags to prevent skunks from
scavenging.
- Remove access to outdoor and indoor pet
food to stop skunks from targeting it as an
easy food source.
-Reduce skunk harborage outdoors by cutting
back long grass and overgrown foliage,
sealing off access to crawl spaces and the
areas under decks and patios, and any vent
holes that lead to basements.
-Address moisture issues that may lead to
pools of excess water that attract thirsty
skunks
Contact Running Wild today for more information
on home wildlife services in Tomball, TX and
surrounding areas.