How to Tell if a Skunk is Living Under Your Deck or Shed
How to Tell if a Skunk is Living Under Your Deck or Shed in Grass Valley and Nevada City
In rural areas like Grass Valley and Nevada City, skunks often seek out cozy hiding spots around homes and yards, with decks and sheds being favorite locations. Skunks might not seem harmful initially, but having one living under a structure can lead to more issues than just the smell.
Key Signs a Skunk is Living Underneath
If you suspect a skunk has taken up residence under your deck or shed, look for these signs:
Digging and Burrow Entrances: Skunks are diggers by nature and will create small burrows to gain access to covered areas. Look around the perimeter of your deck or shed for freshly disturbed soil or small, rounded holes leading underneath. This is the easiest way to tell if any animal is under there.
Tracks and Droppings: Skunks have five toes and long claws that leave distinctive tracks in soft ground. Their droppings are another sign, typically about an inch or two long, often containing insect or small animal remnants.
Odor: The most obvious clue is the strong smell of skunk spray, which can linger around your property and sometimes even seep into your home. Skunks will release this spray when frightened, making the area particularly pungent if they’ve recently been disturbed.
Preventing Skunks From Living Under the Shed
Installing a dig-proof barrier around your shed or deck is an effective, humane way to prevent skunks and other wildlife from nesting underneath. This involves digging a trench 18 inches to 2 feet out from the structure and about 8 inches deep, then securely attaching a heavy-duty PVC-coated wire mesh to the deck or shed base and burying it into the trench. The buried mesh acts as a durable barrier that prevents animals like skunks from digging under and gaining entry. By creating this physical boundary, you not only protect your property from potential damage but also help deter unwanted animal visitors in the future. Gold Country Wildlife Control offers professional installation of dig-proof barriers to ensure a secure fit that will last season after season, keeping your outdoor spaces safe and wildlife-free.
What to Do if You Find a Skunk
First and foremost, keep a safe distance. If you’re sure a skunk is living under your deck, it’s wise to reach out to professionals. Gold Country Wildlife Control can humanely assess the situation, often installing one-way doors to allow skunks to exit safely without letting them return. Once the skunk is gone, installing a dig-proof barrier will keep them and other wildlife out.
Preventing future issues can save time, stress, and potential repair costs. A sturdy exclusion barrier is the best solution for securing vulnerable areas, and professional wildlife control services can help you establish a skunk-free environment around your home.
