Skunk Exclusion: Protecting Your Home During Mating Season

Feb 3

February 14 may be Valentine’s Day for us, but for skunks, it marks the beginning of their mating and breeding season. During this time, homeowners in areas like Grass Valley, Nevada City, Truckee, and Tahoe might notice skunks coming and going from crawl spaces or under decks. Large groups of skunks might appear one week, only to disappear and return later. This pattern is typical as skunks search for mates and potential denning sites.

To prevent these smelly guests from settling in, a combination of exclusion, removal, and odor control is essential. At Gold Country Wildlife Control, we specialize in skunk exclusion and can help protect your home year-round.

Understanding Skunk Activity

During mating season, skunks are more active, often traveling long distances in search of partners. They may temporarily shelter under your deck or crawlspace, especially if the area provides easy access and protection from predators. Skunks can dig into unsecured areas and squeeze through damaged foundation vents or gaps in crawlspace doors.

Without intervention, a temporary stay can turn into a permanent problem, especially if a female skunk decides to make your property her den.

Step 1: Skunk Exclusion

The first and most important step in preventing skunks is exclusion—sealing off areas where they might enter.

Foundation Vent Covers: Damaged or unsecured foundation vents are common entry points for skunks. We install heavy-duty vent covers to block access while allowing proper ventilation.
Crawlspace Door Replacement: Old or poorly sealed crawlspace doors can also be inviting to skunks. We replace them with secure, weatherproof doors to keep wildlife out.
Dig-Proof Barriers: Skunks are excellent diggers, which is why we install barriers around decks, sheds, and unsecured raised foundations. These barriers involve digging a trench around the structure and installing PVC-coated hardware cloth that extends into the ground, making it nearly impossible for skunks to burrow underneath.

Exclusion is a long-term solution that not only keeps skunks out but also prevents other animals like raccoons, opossums, and ground squirrels from invading your property.

Step 2: Skunk Removal

If skunks are already on your property, removal is necessary before exclusion can be completed.

One-Way Doors: One-way doors allow skunks to leave but prevent them from re-entering. This humane method is highly effective and ensures that skunks vacate the area on their own.
Trapping: In cases where a one-way door isn’t feasible, we use professional trapping methods to remove skunks safely and humanely. It is important to trap and remove skunks before the spring birthing season. During those few weeks immobile skunks make it difficult and often impossible to remove for several weeks.

It’s crucial to handle skunk removal carefully to avoid spraying incidents or leaving behind young skunks that might still be in the den.

Step 3: Odor Control

Skunks are infamous for their potent spray, which can linger for weeks or even months if not properly addressed.

Enzyme Treatments: For mild to moderate odor issues, we use enzyme-based treatments to mitigate the smell. These treatments break down the chemical compounds in skunk spray, effectively eliminating the odor.
Insulation and Vapor Barrier Removal: In severe cases, where skunks have sprayed directly in crawlspaces, removing soiled insulation and plastic vapor barriers may be necessary. This ensures that no residual odors remain and that your home’s air quality is restored.
Did your dog get sprayed by a skunk? Check out or odor removal recipe for washing pets and clothes here https://www.goldcountrywildlifecontrol.com/blog/summer-skunk-safety-protecting-your-pets-from-stinky-encounters?rq=skunk%20odor%20removal

Why Skunk Exclusion Matters

Beyond the unpleasant smell, skunks can cause significant damage to your property. They can dig up landscaping, damage wiring or plumbing in crawlspaces, and attract other wildlife. Taking proactive steps to exclude skunks and repair vulnerable areas protects your home and prevents costly repairs.

Protect Your Property This Skunk Season

As skunks become more active during mating season, don’t wait until your home becomes their den. At Gold Country Wildlife Control, we specialize in skunk exclusion, removal, and odor control for homes in Grass Valley, Nevada City, and in the Minden, Carson, and surrounding areas.

Sawyer M