How to Evict a Skunk from Under Your Deck

Discovering a skunk under your deck can be an unpleasant surprise, but it's important to handle the situation carefully to ensure the safety of both you and the skunk. Skunks are generally peaceful creatures, but they can spray a foul-smelling liquid when they feel threatened. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to safely remove a skunk from under your deck.

Before we dive into the removal process, it's crucial to understand that skunks are beneficial to your yard as they feed on insects, grubs, and other pests. However, if the skunk has taken residence under your deck, it's important to humanely relocate it to ensure your safety and the skunk's well-being.

Preparation for Skunk Removal

Before attempting to remove the skunk, there are several preparations you should make to ensure the process goes smoothly and safely.

First, ensure that you have the necessary equipment. You'll need a live trap, gloves, a towel or blanket, a flashlight, and a shovel. It's also a good idea to have a bucket of water and a bottle of tomato juice or a skunk odor remover on hand, as skunks may spray during the removal process.

Choosing the Right Trap

When selecting a live trap, choose one that is specifically designed for skunks. These traps are typically made of steel or heavy-duty wire mesh and have a trigger mechanism that closes the door when the skunk enters. Make sure the trap is large enough for the skunk to enter comfortably.

It's also important to note that skunks are protected by law in some areas, so it's crucial to check your local regulations before trapping. In some cases, you may need to hire a professional wildlife removal service.

Setting Up the Trap

Set the trap in the evening, as skunks are nocturnal creatures and are more likely to enter the trap at night. Place the trap near the opening where the skunk is entering and exiting the deck. Make sure the trap is secure and won't tip over when the skunk enters.

Bait the trap with a strong-smelling food, such as fish or chicken, to attract the skunk. You can also use a skunk lure, which is a synthetic scent designed to mimic the scent of female skunks in heat.

Removing the Skunk from the Trap

Once the skunk is trapped, it's time to remove it from under your deck. This process should be done carefully and quickly to minimize stress for the skunk and reduce the risk of it spraying.

Approach the trap slowly and quietly, wearing gloves to protect your hands. Place a towel or blanket over the trap to calm the skunk and reduce the risk of it spraying. Use the shovel to carefully lift the trap and carry it away from the deck.

Relocating the Skunk

Once the skunk is in the trap, it's time to relocate it to a new habitat. Skunks can travel long distances, so it's important to choose a location that is at least five miles away from your home. This will help ensure that the skunk doesn't return to your yard.

When releasing the skunk, place the trap on the ground and open the door. The skunk should exit the trap on its own. If it doesn't, you can use a long stick to gently prod it out. Once the skunk is out of the trap, it should quickly scurry away to its new habitat.

Cleaning Up After the Skunk

After the skunk has been removed, it's important to clean up the area under your deck to remove any lingering odors and prevent other skunks from taking residence.

Start by removing any debris or food sources that may have attracted the skunk to the area. Then, use a mixture of water and a skunk odor remover or tomato juice to clean the area. Skunks are sensitive to the smell of tomatoes, so this should help to deter other skunks from the area.

Finally, consider installing a barrier under your deck to prevent other skunks or wildlife from entering the area. This can be as simple as adding a layer of hardware cloth or chicken wire to the bottom of the deck to keep animals out.

In the future, keep an eye out for signs of skunk activity in your yard, such as diggings in your lawn or under your deck. If you notice any signs, take immediate action to remove the skunk and prevent it from taking residence in your yard. By following these steps, you can safely and humanely remove a skunk from under your deck and keep your yard free of unwanted pests.