Skunk in My Yard, Now What?

Why are skunks a nuisance?

Skunks can cause more trouble than just spraying you or your animals. Although one could argue that is probably the worst part of having a skunk problem, there is plenty more damage these animals may cause.

Skunks tend to use the dens of other animals that have been abandoned. However, when they can't find an abandoned den, they will dig one of their own in your hard. These dens are used to protect themselves while they have babies. This means when you have a skunk den in your yard, the skunk will do anything to protect its young (including spraying and biting). These dens can typically be found under your decks, near your foundation, under a shed, and even under your porch.

Not only will skunks dig up your yard to form a den, they will also dig up your yard to find food. Skunks will dig cone shaped holes about the size of a softball all over your lawn attempting to find food. They'll also turn over sod and ruin your garden.

So you have a skunk in your yard, now what?

The first thing you should do is make sure that your family and animals stay away from the den. A skunk den will almost always have babies (kits) in it and a skunk will spray and bite if you get too close to it.

The second thing to do is contact a professional pest control company. Each state has their own requirements on what they have to do with a skunk once it is caught. In the state of Michigan, a skunk may not be possessed or relocated; it must be euthanized immediately.

If you trapped the animal yourself, the industry average for euthanizing an animal is between $125-$350. If the company has to trap the animal, this cost is usually included in the price of baiting and trapping.

Once the animal is trapped, the company should also approach the den and retrieve all the kits for a safe and humane euthanization. Companies should NOT charge your separately to retrieve the kits.

Make sure to ask the company if they are relocating or euthanizing the animal. This will ensure you get a company that knows what they're doing and following proper state laws regarding what to do with the animal and legal and ethical ways to euthanize.