Skunk Control

The Damage

Skunks are attracted to yards that offer a food source, such as trash cans and pet food. They will also attempt to make dens under decks, sheds, and other structures. Their digging habits damage lawns and gardens. If they’re threatened, skunks can shoot their defensive spray up to twenty feet. Besides smelling terrible, it can burn the skin and eyes. Keep pets indoors at night to avoid being sprayed.

The Health Risks

Rabies:
Rabies is spread from an infected skunk to another animal or human through saliva. It causes muscle pain, dizziness, fatigue, fever, delirium, aggression, and eventually death.

Tularemia:
Tularemia is transmitted to skunks by insects. Humans can contract tularemia from an infected skunk through contact with it or its fecal matter. A skin ulcer appears at the site the bacteria entered the body. It is accompanied by swollen lymph glands. It can eventually lead to a cough, chest pain, and difficulty breathing.

Parasites:
Skunks carry parasites like fleas, mites, ticks, and lice. These insects can transmit diseases like Lyme to humans and pets.

The Modern Solution for Skunk Control

A Modern Pest Wildlife team professional will determine if you have a skunk issue based on digging habits, droppings, and the distinctive odor. Exclusion techniques such as trenching can be used to keep skunks from accessing areas under porches and sheds. Holes used as entry points will be covered in wire mesh. Skunks can also be humanely trapped and relocated far from the home.

Modern’s Wildlife Services may differ based on local regulations. Please call 800-323-7378 for more information.

When you partner with Modern Pest Services, you’ll never have to worry about a pest, rodent or wildlife issue again!

Wildlife Control Methods

Will My Homeowners Insurance Cover Wildlife Damage?

Since every homeowners insurance policy is different, it’s important to talk with your agent and find out exactly what is covered by yours.

Most standard home and mobile home insurance policies will cover damage to your home by a wild animal if the animal is not a rodent. Some common nuisance rodents are mice, rats, chipmunks, flying and ground squirrels, groundhogs, and porcupines. Bats, birds, raccoons, and weasels are not rodents, and are often covered.

Usually, the damage must have occurred in a single, identifiable event. If it occurred over a gradual period and preventable action could have been taken, it might not be covered.

When you’re shopping for a policy, talk with an agent about possible wildlife damage scenarios you could face. They will be able to inform you on whether the policy offers coverage in each scenario.