Skunks can be a nuisance to deal with and pose a potentially dangerous problem for farmers, homeowners, and commercial property owners throughout Tennessee. They typically make their homes near the edges of forests and other woodlands, so homeowners in these areas are more likely to deal with these black and white stinkers. Typically growing to the size of houses cats, they are most known for the rotten smell they release when threatened. However, their offensive odor is hardly the only negative thing you need to be aware of.

Health Risks

One of the most severe health risks posed by skunks is rabies. According to the Humane Society, they are one of the primary carriers in North America. Rabies is a severe infectious disease and is something we need to be aware of. One of the most telling signs of an animal infected with the disease is if they are active during the day. Skunks are nocturnal animals and usually will only roam about in the evening and late hours. If you see one moving around or active during the day, you should contact a wildlife control professional immediately. Another disease they are known to carry is leptospirosis. This bacterial infection is spread to people through contact with soil that has been contaminated with the urine of an infected animal. While it is not life-threatening, it can lead to unpleasant, flu-like symptoms.

Bad Habits

Skunks are typically non-confrontational. However, if one does feel threatened, their first line of defense is to charge, stomp their feet, and hiss. Of course, there is also the infamous smell and scent glands that release it. The spray they shoot as a defense mechanism is sulfur based. It can travel up to fifteen feet with incredible accuracy, and they can spray six times in a row. A shot in the eyes can cause temporary blindness. Amazingly, the smell can be recognized up to three and a half miles away by the human nose, can linger for almost a month. Even when threatened, they will not spray another skunk.
What To Do If You Suspect A Skunk Infestation
If your front yard is looking like it has been tilled recently, you guessed it, skunks. They will press their nose to ground and dig out the soil in search of grubs and earthworms. If you suspect you are dealing with skunks, do not attempt to handle the situation yourself. Because of the threats they pose, it is best if professional pest control experts handle it.

Here at Wildlife Prevention & Repair, we have years of experience catching and dealing with nuisance wildlife. Contact us immediately at the first sign of skunks. We will assess the situation and eliminate the issue humanely and efficiently, using the best live traps on the market. We take pride in keeping our neighbors protected and offer repair and remediation for areas of your property that have been damaged. Call us today for a free estimate.

Wildlife Prevention & Repair offers skunk removal services in the greater Jackson, TN area including Humboldt, Milan, Union City, and other surrounding areas. 

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