How to Deal with a Skunk Living Under a Shed or Porch

Dealing with a skunk under your shed or porch can be stressful—but it doesn’t have to be. Skunks are common in Windsor and Essex County, and while they play an important role in the ecosystem, they can cause strong odours, property damage, and safety concerns when they settle too close to home. This guide will help you identify the signs of a skunk infestation, understand safe and humane removal methods, know when to call a professional, and learn what municipal support is available in Windsor, Essex County, and Chatham. Finally, we’ll share how Pestward can provide expert help to keep your property skunk-free.

1. Why Skunks Settle There

Skunks choose sheltered spots like under sheds or porches for safety, temperature control, and access to food. In spring, female skunks may also nest there to rear their young.

2. Identifying a Skunk Nest

Look for these signs:

• A strong, musky odor near the structure—especially at night.
• New burrow entrances, typically 3–4 inches wide, around the base.
• Tracks showing five toes with faint claw marks.
• Sounds of rustling or movement, often at night.

3. How to Encourage the Skunk to Leave (Humane & Safe)

a. Confirm presence — Sprinkle flour or fine sand near the entrance. If you see skunk tracks the next day, the den is active.
b. Make the area uninviting — Bright lights, radios playing, or motion-activated sprinklers can encourage them to leave.
c. Reduce attractants — Keep garbage sealed, bring pet food inside, and address nearby grubs or insect populations.
d. One-way exit device — Attach a one-way exclusion door so the skunk can leave but not return.
e. Seal entry points once exited — Use durable, buried heavy-gauge wire mesh to block re-entry.

4. When to Call a Professional

Consider calling a wildlife control professional if:

• The skunk remains after DIY efforts.
• You suspect newborn kits under the structure.
• You’re uneasy about approaching or handling wild animals.
• The skunk is aggressive or has sprayed nearby pets or property.

Professionals are trained to handle skunks safely—protecting both you and the animal from harm or stress.

5. Municipal & Regional Support in Windsor & Essex County

Here’s what local resources offer regarding wildlife and skunk-related concerns:

• City of Windsor — You can call 311 to schedule a free inspection. Inspectors will suggest prevention strategies (e.g., securing garbage, sealing structures). Note: the skunk trapping & euthanasia program has been cancelled since 2014.
• Windsor/Essex County Humane Society (WECHS) — Provides animal control support for wildlife in Windsor and Amherstburg. They may assist in stabilization and transfer of sick or injured wild animals.
• Other Municipalities:
  • Towns of Essex and Tecumseh offer services for sick or injured wildlife via their animal control providers.
  • Leamington and Kingsville provide services for raccoons, skunks, and opossums only, also through contracted animal control.
  • LaSalle and Lakeshore currently do not provide wildlife services—residents must coordinate care themselves.

If you’re unsure whether your town offers help, contacting WECHS or your municipal office is a great first step.

6. After Removal: Preventing Reoccurrence

• Secure all potential entry points with hardware cloth buried at least 12 inches deep.
• Maintain cleanliness—seal garbage, remove pet food, and regularly clean storage areas.
• Set up deterrents like motion-activated lights or sprinklers to discourage returning wildlife.

Local Support Summary

Ready for Professional Help?

If you’d rather not handle skunk removal on your own—or if the situation is complex—Pestward offers professional, humane pest removal services you can trust. Contact Pestward today for safe, effective, and warranty-backed skunk exclusion and prevention.

Need help setting up that one-way device, sealing access, or avoiding future wildlife drama? Pestward is here when you need them.