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Skunks are nocturnal creatures, meaning they are primarily active at night, particularly around dusk and dawn. Their activity levels increase as the weather warms up, and they are generally dormant or inactive during the winter. Skunks are especially active during the spring months when they are foraging for fresh food and seeking mates. While they are typically not seen during the day, daytime activity is possible if a skunk is having trouble finding food, has babies to care for, or is severely ill.

It can be difficult to know what type of animal is in your attic until you see it. But several clues can help you narrow down the suspects:

• Sounds: Smaller animals like rats and mice make scurrying and tapping/gnawing sounds. Larger animals like raccoons and opossums make louder clambering noises. Also, note when animals are noisy: Squirrels are active during the day, while rats are busiest at night.

• Droppings: Rats and mice leave small, rice-shaped droppings (the rat’s version is significantly larger). Bigger droppings belong to larger critters like raccoons. As long as you’re not squeamish, an image search can help you identify what you’re seeing in your attic.

When in doubt, take photos of damage or other evidence and show them to an experienced pest control pro.

Deers have an extraordinarily strong sense of smell, which means they can react strongly to certain scents. Lavender, garlic, mint, cinnamon, clove, and human hair are some of the most offensive scents for deer. You can try mixing some of these pungent oils or scents with a spray mixture and adding them to your garden.

Setting up an animal trap in your yard largely depends on where you live and the type of critter you're dealing with. In many states, trapping nuisance animals like squirrels, rats, or raccoons is allowed, sometimes without needing a permit. However, certain wildlife species are protected, and not all states have lenient catch-and-release regulations.

Before placing a trap, check your local laws to avoid fines or other legal issues. Some areas allow DIY trapping, while others may require professional assistance. Most areas require a professional to relocate the animal once trapped. Consulting a pro ensures you handle the situation responsibly, humanely, and within the law.