Whether you are in the
country or the city you are bound to smell, if not see, a skunk.
They feed on fruits and any food or garbage left out in the open,
but they really like grubs, which is why they will dig up a lawn.
Now, before we label them a complete pest you should know
that they will also eat field mice, rats, insects and even moles.
So, in that sense, they can actually eliminate garden pests! If
they aren't bothering you, consider leaving them along.
Skunks hide during the day and will sleep in brush piles, irrigation
pipes, junk cars, under sheds or porches and in wood piles too.
Try to keep anything that may become a home for them either
closed off completely or open enough so light reaches in. Also,
feeding dogs, cats or other animals outside where the food may
be left out is an invitation to the skunks. Skunks don't like light
or noise--they are really rather timid. It takes quite a bit for them
to spray. If you do come into contact with one and it stomps its
feet, slowly back away as quietly as you can. They give warning
first usually, unless it's a baby. They are not mature enough, and
will spray right away....just because they are cute and small does
not mean they can't spray! But again. they are more scared of
you, then you are of them.
If you are sprayed, or a pet comes wanders home smelling like
skunk, you can wash with a mixture of 1 quart of 3% hydrogen
peroxide,1/2 cup baking soda, and 1 tbsp. liquid soap. Keep this
mixture out of the eyes, nose, and mouth. Rinse with warm water
afterwards. Don't store this mixture---throw out what you don't
use (It forms a gas). You can use it to wash outside of buildings
or something that has been sprayed...but it could fade clothing
or carpet.
If the smell has come through the windows or from a pet and
your house smells, try boiling water with a few sprigs of fresh
rosemary to get rid of the odor.
Usually when you smell a skunk outside it begins to fade, but
if it has sprayed too near you it could last for a week or two.
IF it seems like it's getting stronger then start searching your
property--you may have a dead skunk somewhere, which will
actually start to smell worse. You'll need to find it and get
rid of it.
The bottom line is it's best to leave skunks alone if you can.
If they are on your property, under a porch or shed, then try
lighting the area--you can use those caged utility lights and
place it in the area you think they are making a home. You
can also put ammonia in a small coffee can, poke holes in
the lid, replace it and put this in the area. That may chase
them out---refresh it once a week or so. Notice these are
things you can do without physically bothering the skunk
yourself. Always check with your area wildlife agency,
extension office or even local nature center for more tips.
They know the local wildlife and the best things to do.
About the Author:
Brenda Hyde is a freelance writer and editor of Old Fashioned Living. She and
her family live in a 100 year old house and are experts at Do-it-Yourself projects
on a budget! Visit HERE to sign up for her free tips newsletter.
