• How to Locate & Detect

• Property Damage

• Human Health Issues

Skunks are renowned for the horrible smell they emit when injured, frightened or mating. The odour can remain on pets and in ventilation systems for weeks or months. But these animals can also cause significant damage to buildings and landscaping.

GENERAL BIOLOGY & BEHAVIOUR

• Of four species in North America, striped skunk and spotted skunk are found in Canada

• Burrow dens under porches, decks, sheds, wood/rock piles

• Nocturnal omnivores: feed on plants, insects, small mammals, bird eggs and fallen fruits

• Hibernate and several females may den together over the winter

• Rarely aggressive unless cornered or defending young

• If approached or threatened, will usually fluff its fur, lift its tail, stamp the ground with its front feet, and growl; if not effective, it will lift its tail and spray

• The glands that produce the chemical hold enough for five or six full-powered sprays that can be accurate up to 4.5 metres

• Seldom spray without warning or cause

• Social animals: several families may congregate in single den site

• Typically 4-6 babies (kits) in a litter

• Signs of digging and burrowing are the most common way to locate a skunk den. Damage to lawns and gardens may also be evident.

• Persistent, faint skunk odour likely indicates that a skunk has taken up residence nearby

Dealing with Odour

• Odour often enters the ventilation system and will spread throughout the building very quickly

• Air building out thoroughly using fans; may need to place under building as that is usually where the odour originates

• Chlorine bleach, ammonia or products containing neutroleum alpha can be used to clean inanimate objects

• Protective eye wear and a mask should be used when cleaning skunk-sprayed items

Structural Damage

• Skunks tend to burrow out their dens, which can cause weaknesses in porches, decks, sheds and foundations

• Will chew or burrow through wood and siding

Dealing with Odour

• Skunk spray can be highly noxious, causing nausea and vomiting. It also contains sulphuric acid, which can cause temporary blindness in pets and humans.

• People: wash skin as soon as possible with carbolic soap, tomato juice or vinegar

• Pets: immediate action is key to removing or relieving the smell. The pet should be washed as soon as possible with tomato juice, diluted vinegar, toothpaste or a commercial product sold for this purpose, being careful to keep the substance away from the eyes. Leave the product on for several minutes before rinsing.

Rabies

• The number of cases of rabies in skunks exceeds that in raccoons or foxes

• Rabies-infected skunks cannot often be distinguished from healthy ones

• Rabies is transmitted through saliva from the infected skunk to humans and pets, often through a bite

• Seek medical attention immediately if bitten or come into contact with saliva