How do I identify if I have skunks under my house versus another animal?
The most telling sign of skunks is the distinctive, musky odor they emit, even without being startled. Other clues include shallow, cone-shaped digging near the foundation, tracks showing five toes on the front feet and five on the rear, and potential sightings of a black animal with white stripes (though stripe patterns vary greatly). While raccoons and opossums might also take up residence under a house, the smell is the most reliable differentiator.
Beyond the telltale skunk smell, consider the time of day you're noticing activity. Skunks are primarily nocturnal, meaning they're most active at night or during dawn and dusk. Raccoons and opossums also share this behavior, but squirrels, rats, or mice are more likely to be active during the day. Listen for sounds. Skunks are generally quiet, making soft grunts or chirps, whereas raccoons might be noisier, with more vocalizations and heavier footsteps. Finally, look for visual confirmation whenever possible. If you can safely observe the area under your house (without disturbing the potential inhabitants), try to identify the animal based on its appearance. Remember that young skunks are smaller but still have the distinctive stripe pattern. Also, look for droppings. Skunk droppings are typically about 1/2 inch in diameter and 1-2 inches long, often containing undigested insects, berries, or fur. Comparing these signs with information about other common nuisance animals in your area can help you pinpoint whether you're dealing with skunks.What are the dangers of having skunks living under my house?
Having skunks under your house poses several risks, primarily from their potent musk, potential for property damage through digging and nesting, and the threat of disease transmission, including rabies.
Skunk musk is notoriously pungent and can permeate your home, causing significant discomfort and lingering odors that are difficult and expensive to remove. Direct sprays can cause temporary blindness and nausea. Beyond the smell, skunks are diggers. They may expand entry points under your house, damaging foundations, insulation, and ductwork as they create nests and look for food (grubs, insects). This damage can lead to costly repairs. Furthermore, skunks are known carriers of rabies, a deadly viral disease. While not all skunks carry rabies, the risk is real, especially if you have pets or children who may come into contact with them. Skunks can also carry other diseases and parasites, such as distemper, leptospirosis, and fleas, which can affect both humans and animals. Their presence also attracts other unwanted wildlife seeking to scavenge from their leftovers. Finally, skunks are nocturnal, and their digging and movement under your house can cause disruptive noises at night.Should I hire a professional to remove skunks from under my house?
Yes, generally hiring a professional to remove skunks from under your house is highly recommended, especially if you lack experience with wildlife removal. Skunks can be dangerous, carrying diseases like rabies, and their spray is notoriously unpleasant and difficult to remove. Professionals have the knowledge, equipment, and experience to safely and humanely remove the skunks and prevent future infestations.