Skunks spray as a defense mechanism to ward off predators. The active ingredient in their sulfurous, oily musk is n-butyl mercaptan, which evaporates into a powerful and smelly gas. Once the spray hits the skunk’s target, the stench can linger for days, and water and common cleaning kits aren’t enough to wash it away.
If you happen upon a skunk in your yard, try to back away slowly to reduce the chance of them aiming at you. Encouragingly, they don’t use their weapon casually, as it can take up to 10 days for their life-saving weaponry to refill. Paw stamping, hissing, lifting their tail, and arching their back are early signs they feel trapped or under threat and that it’s time to make a careful retreat.
Fleas are master hiders, so they’re always looking for safe spots. In addition to living directly on your pets, they’re likely to hide in bedding materials, not unlike the infamous bed bugs. They also like carpet and thick grass, for similar reasons. They’re more likely to hang around dirt and debris in general, which is why it’s important to keep the home clean.
The best way to permanently get rid of skunks is by setting up deterrents around your property to keep skunks out. Get rid of skunks permanently by:
Not leaving food or water outside
Installing a motion-sensor sprinkler system
Installing fencing that’s at least 3 feet high and a foot deep
Adding motion-sensor lights in the yard
Cleaning up brush, sticks, woodpiles, and leaves on your property so skunks can’t use the materials for a nest
Seal up cracks and holes around your property to prevent skunks from building a den
Placing fresh lemon peels around the perimeter of your home
Some animals, such as bats or birds, will be able to get out of chimneys on their own since they can fly. Other animals, however, may have a harder time and will require the help of a professional to escape. Squirrels and raccoons in particular may become stuck inside a chimney, especially if you have a buildup of soot or creosote inside. This can prevent them from being able to climb out, in which case you’ll need to call an animal control expert to help remove them.
The cost of removing a hornets nest ranges from $300 to $400, depending on the size and location of the active nest. Bald-faced hornet removal costs more than the average—about $625 to $750. The price tag also depends on the eradication method, ranging from aerosol sprays and dusting to vacuuming and extermination.
The Circle, MT homeowners’ guide to animal fencing services
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
Pipe fencing is an extremely strong, durable option for containing horses and other livestock. This guide breaks down the factors that affect pipe fence cost.
