The Best Skunk Deterrents

Although skunks have habits that are beneficial, such as killing insects and small rodents, many consider the nocturnal animal to be nothing but a smelly pest, causing damage to gardens and lawns by digging, according to the article, "Managing Skunk Problems," published by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Keeping skunks out of your yard can be challenging, but there are effective ways to deter these animals from hanging out around your home.

  1. Light

    • Skunks are nocturnal animals and detest the light. These mammals tend to stay away from highly lit areas, so adding light in your yard is one of the most effective skunk deterrents, according to the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. Female skunks prefer a dark location to birth her young and ensuring your area is bright will keep her from choosing your backyard as a nesting ground. Keep in mind that adding lights or keeping lights on during the night can lead to a higher energy bill, but it may be worth it to keep away skunks.

    Reducing Attractants

    • Skunks are likely to venture into your yard if you have food or water. Ensure your yard doesn't have these attractants. Remove any pet food and water bowls, wrap up any garbage bags tightly and close your garbage can tightly. It's common for people to toss any leftover vegetables, fruits or other foods into the garden or flower bed for compost; however, this not only attracts skunks but other wildlife as well.

    Seal Holes

    • Prime locations for skunks to nest are under houses and decks and to deter these animals from settling in your space means making sure any holes or open spaces in these locations are sealed. Using quarter-inch screening or solid metal flash wire are effective ways to cover these holes, especially underneath decks or porches, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Consider doing this along the perimeter of your fence as this will help keep skunks out of your yard completely.

    Pest Control

    • A skunk's diet consist of grub worms and subsoil insects and they have been known to destroy gardens and landscapes in search of their underground dinner. Controlling these insects will deter skunks, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. A pest control product can be purchased at a local garden or hardware store; there are different varieties, so get advice from a store employee.