Skunk Removal in Grand Rapids

A skunk living under the deck, porch, shed or crawl space is one problem you don't want to handle yourself. Call [616 NUMBER] or send the form, and a local wildlife control professional will call you back.

Signs of a skunk

• The smell, especially around a deck, porch or foundation
• Holes in the lawn, The Michigan DNR notes skunks dig for grubs and insects.
• A burrow or gap under a deck, porch, stoop or shed
• Tracks or activity at dusk and at night

Skunks and the calendar

According to the DNR, skunks mate from late winter to early spring and have one litter a year, typically 4 to 7 young. A skunk under the porch in spring or early summer may be a mother with young, which changes how removal has to be planned.

Michigan's rules for skunks

• No trap and relocate. The DNR does not authorize or conduct live capture and release of skunks, except for permitted research.
• Higher rabies risk. The DNR says skunks have an increased likelihood of rabies in Michigan, so skunks and their young can't be rehabilitated or kept. Never try to handle or keep a young skunk.
• The goal is to get the skunk out from under the structure and close the opening so it can't move back in.

How skunk removal works

1. Inspection. Find the den entrance and any other openings, and check for young.
2. Get it out. The professional chooses a method that fits Michigan rules and your situation.
3. Seal it off. Close the opening with durable materials. The DNR suggests burying fencing a few inches deep or using a horizontal skirt, because skunks dig.
4. Remove the attraction. Secure food sources so the next skunk isn't drawn in.

Safety for people and pets

The DNR describes skunks as relatively docile, but they may spray or bite if agitated. Keep dogs leashed or fenced at night if they chase wildlife. Because of the rabies risk, if a person or pet is bitten or scratched, contact a doctor or veterinarian and the Kent County Health Department at 616-632-7228.

Keep skunks away

The DNR recommends:

• Keep pet food, bird food and compost out of reach
• Use animal-proof garbage containers and clean grills of food scraps
• Seal holes under decks, porches and sheds with durable materials like metal flashing or hardware cloth
• Seal pet doors at night
• Put a rough board in a window well if a skunk falls in, so it can climb out

Store-bought deterrents like lights and repellents tend to work only briefly, according to the DNR.

Skunk FAQ

Can you relocate the skunk?

No. The DNR does not authorize live capture and release of skunks.

There's a skunk in my window well. What do I do?

The DNR suggests placing a rough board in the well so it can climb out on its own. Keep your distance.

Can I just close up the hole under my deck?

Not until you're sure the skunk, and any young, are out. Otherwise you can trap them under the deck.

Get a Grand Rapids skunk professional to call you back

Call [616 NUMBER] or send the short form.

Sources: Michigan DNR: Skunks · Kent County Health Department