Fastest Way to Get Rid of Colorado Springs Skunks

Skunk are shy creatures but easy to spot because of their distinctive appearance and smell. Their smell can immediately alert you of their presence even if they have just visited the area. The Colorado Springs skunk’s spray is pungent and very difficult to remove. Skunks rarely attack humans or pets. However, they are smelly and also a carrier of rabies. They are also messy and upset your garbage searching for food. They also dig cone shaped holes in the yard searching for food. Skunks are rarely active during the day and those sighted may either be hungry or rabid. A rabid skunk shows circling movements, disorientation and abnormal behaviour. It is best to contact the animal department or wildlife expert for help in case of a rabid Colorado skunk. The most effective way of getting rid of skunks is by trapping and removal.



Trapping
Large cage traps baited with marshmallow or cat food can be used. Medium to large skunk cages are available. The cages are spring loaded and shut the door as soon as the animal is lured inside. Raccoon cages can also be used. Large cage traps about 10” x 12” x 30” are ideal. Traps must be scent free and flush to the ground. They must be set in shade. Once caught, the Colorado Springs skunk can be relocated. Homemade cages can be easily designed using a 30 gallon metal garbage can. A sturdy stick can be used as a ramp. Place some cat food or fruit inside the garbage can as a bait. Position he stick so that the skunk can climb it from the ground. And get inside the can. Once inside the skunk is trapped it cannot get out or spray. Transport the animal and carefully relocate it.

Relocation
Relocation must be done several miles away from your property. Take necessary precautions before relocating the agitated animal to avoid getting sprayed. Be aware of wild life regulations on trapping and relocation.

Prevention
Prevention of entry and re-entry after getting rid of Colorado skunks is important. Some important tips are given below.
• Install fencing around your property so that no wild animal can easily enter.
• To prevent skunks from living under a shed or porch construct exclusive barriers. Exclusive barriers consist of steel mesh around the perimeter and at least 12” into the ground with the bottom mesh sloping upward.
• Clean up the yard regularly and secure the garbage.
• Avoid feeding your pets outside.
• Regular cleaning of fallen fruits and other food lying around reduce the food source of wild animals.
• Specialised motion activated sprinklers can be installed near potential areas of skunk entry.
• Colorado Springs skunks use abandoned dens to make their shelters. Inspect property and block all holes, burrows and make porch, sheds, decks, poultry farms etc inaccessible.
• Repellent products like moth balls, spices, fox urine etc are not effective and when used work only for a short time.
• Lethal measures are illegal and also ineffective.

Visit our Colorado Springs wildlife control home page to learn more about us.