A closer look

Skunk Removal

Skunks under a deck, porch or shed are let out with a one-way door, then the gap is closed with buried wire mesh.

Where to start

Tell the company where you've noticed wildlife, how long it has been happening, and anything you've already tried. Photos and a short timeline give the inspector a useful starting point.

What to discuss during the inspection

Ask which areas need checking, what was found, and which treatment options fit. Have the inspector explain how to prepare and what follow-up may be needed.

What affects the quote

Access to the affected areas, how far the problem has spread, and the number of visits all affect the work involved. Ask what is included so you can compare the options.

Questions to ask before you book

How do you confirm it's wildlife?

Ask what the provider saw and how that diagnosis was reached before any work is authorized.

What will you do, and why?

Have the provider explain each step, the products used, and why that approach fits this property.

What preparation do I need?

Clear access to the affected areas and follow any written preparation and re-entry instructions.

What does the price include?

Confirm inspection fees, the number of visits, and any follow-up or warranty terms in writing.

What to look for

A smell under the deck

A strong, musky odor after dark often means a skunk is denning under the deck, porch or shed.

Holes in the yard

A big burrow by the shed points to a groundhog. Lots of small, shallow holes in the lawn point to armadillos or skunks digging for grubs.

Noises overhead

Quick scurrying at dawn is usually squirrels. Heavy thumps at night suggest a raccoon or opossum.

When it happens through the year

spring

Baby season. Mothers den under decks and in attics; don't seal while young are inside.

summer

Young animals roam at night. Secure trash and pet food.

fall

Animals hunt for winter dens. A good time to seal gaps.

winter

Groundhogs sleep through it; skunks and opossums den up in cold snaps.

Frequently asked questions

How do I get a skunk out from under my deck?

Wait until it leaves at night, then close the gap with wire mesh buried a foot down. Don't do it in spring, when babies may be inside.

Are opossums dangerous?

Rarely. They're shy and would rather play dead than fight. Still, never handle one.

What's digging holes in my lawn?

Small, cone-shaped holes suggest armadillos. Patches of turf rolled back suggest skunks or raccoons after grubs.

Can the animal just be moved somewhere else?

Often not. Many states limit relocating wildlife, and moving a mother can leave babies behind.

Do wildlife pros use poison?

No. Poisons aren't used on animals like skunks or opossums. Removal relies on one-way doors, traps and sealing.

What does wildlife removal cost?

A simple job often costs a few hundred dollars. Sealing, repairs and cleanup add more.

Ready to talk to a provider?

Describe what you've noticed and ask about an inspection or a quote.

Ask a question or get a quote