Who Is the Best Pro to Call for Skunk Removal?
When a surfeit of skunks moves into your shed, who you gonna call?
Skunks are cute. Just look at those adorable white stripes down the middle of their bodies. Unfortunately, these critters also emit a glandular liquid that is just about the foulest-smelling odor known to humankind. Skunks will also absolutely tear up a yard in their pursuit of delicious worms and grubs, and are a possible vector for the spread of rabies.
If you find skunks are making their home on your property, you should handle the issue immediately. Here’s who to call for skunk removal.
Benefits of Hiring an Animal Control Specialist for Skunk Removal
Removing a skunk safely and humanely is difficult and frustrating work. Local skunk control specialists are trained to capture, remove, and relocate skunk populations. This results in a (relatively) speedy removal process, even when a skunk has lodged itself somewhere that’s difficult to access. It also means you and your family won’t be exposed to a rabid animal or sprayed with foul gland juice.
Animal control specialists will also address obvious security holes in your property that allow skunks and other critters to get into your yard or even inside your home. The national average cost to have a skunk removed is $300 to $600.
Can I DIY Skunk Removal?
We don’t recommend going the DIY route when it comes to trapping and relocating any animals. You should never approach a skunk or other wild critter without the proper experience and safety gear. The CDC says that skunks are the highest risk for rabies in the U.S., and these critters will put up a fight when cornered.
Even if you escape without a bite, you’ll likely get hit by the smell. We cannot oversell just how badly you’ll smell if you get sprayed by a skunk. The odor can also last weeks, even if you take attempt to remove skunk smell immediately after getting sprayed.
Finally, you shouldn’t remove skunks yourself because you could hurt or even kill the animal, which is inhumane and often illegal.
Can I Hire a Pest Control Expert for Skunk Removal?
Some pest control companies, otherwise called exterminators, will handle skunks. In other words, contacting a local pest control company is a fine option, so long as it has someone on staff experienced with skunks and mammals. You are probably better off going with a dedicated wildlife or skunk control specialist, as they are likely more experienced, but an exterminator will work in a pinch.
It is worth noting, however, that exterminators are more likely to kill the skunk than catch and relocate it. Call up your preferred contractor to discuss options.
Can I Contact a Municipal Animal Control for Skunk Removal?
This depends on where you live and local statutes, so maybe. Some areas offer skunk removal and the trapping of so-called nuisance wildlife. However, this is the exception rather than the rule. Many municipalities place the onus of responsibility squarely on the homeowner or landlord. Contact a local regulatory agency to inquire about statutes relevant to your situation and the possibility of receiving help from animal control.