Pest Library
SkunksMephitis mephitis
Small furry mammals about the size of a housecat, skunks are easy to identify by their bold white-and-black pattern. Their signature trait, the foul-smelling spray from glands at the base of the tail, is exactly why no New England property wants them sticking around.
Are Skunks Dangerous?
Skunks are dangerous pests that only live outside, away from people and property, in the wild. The most significant concern is that they're one of the major carriers of rabies — they also carry tularemia and leptospirosis.
Other reasons skunks are unwanted in New England yards:
- Burrowing under sheds, foundations, and decks causes structural damage and puts them close to your family and pets — and when threatened, they won't hesitate to spray.
- They dig up lawns while foraging for insects.
- They damage gardens by feeding on plants and vegetables.
- Unsecured trash gets torn open and scattered.
Where Skunks Den on Your Property
Properties near woods, fields, or meadows see the most skunk activity — skunks have learned our yards offer easy food and safe places to hide. Tap a spot on the yard below to see what to watch for and how to prevent it.
Tap any glowing spot on the yard to see prevention tips for that area.
To get rid of troublesome, smelly skunks from your Massachusetts or New Hampshire property, trust the local professionals at Freedom Pest Control. We provide innovative, eco-friendly pest management coupled with friendly, caring customer service. Our team will trap and humanely remove skunks from your property.
Learn more about our total wildlife control services in Massachusetts or New Hampshire, and give us a call today.
- Place fencing around garden areas and regularly harvest ripe fruits and vegetables.
- Keep tight-fitting lids on trash cans and compost bins; store them off the ground and away from your home's exterior.
- Feed pets indoors, or pick up outdoor food dishes before bed each night.
- Bury fencing around decks, sheds, and other buildings to block burrowing access.
- Clear fallen trees, brush piles, and construction debris where skunks could den.
Learn more about our home pest control and commercial pest control solutions.