Skunks are a familiar part of Cape Cod’s wildlife landscape, known for their distinctive black-and-white coloring and potent defense mechanism. While they play a role in the ecosystem by eating insects and small rodents, a skunk lingering on your property can become a serious concern, especially if it appears to be nesting or behaving unusually.
Knowing what to do when you encounter a skunk near your home can help prevent unwanted odors, property damage, and potential health risks.
Is It Normal to See a Skunk in Cape Cod?
Yes, skunks are native to Massachusetts and are especially active during warmer months. You may spot them at dusk or nighttime as they forage for food. Most of the time, skunks will try to avoid human interaction and move on without incident.
However, if a skunk is repeatedly seen in your yard, lingers during daylight hours, or is nesting under a porch or shed, it’s time to pay closer attention.
Steps to Take if You Spot a Skunk
Keep Your Distance
Skunks spray as a defense mechanism when they feel cornered. Always keep pets and children away and do not attempt to scare the skunk off.
Secure Food Sources
Remove pet food, trash, compost, or bird seed that might attract skunks. Secure your garbage in tightly sealed containers.
Inspect for Entry Points
Skunks often seek shelter under decks, porches, or sheds. Check for signs of digging, disturbed soil, or tracks, but avoid getting too close.
Do Not Attempt Removal Yourself
Skunks are known to spray when frightened, and improper handling increases the risk of bites or disease exposure. Leave removal to professionals trained in humane wildlife control.
Health Risks and Diseases Associated with Skunks
Skunks can carry diseases that pose a threat to both people and pets. If a skunk is acting strangely, such as being overly aggressive, walking in circles, or appearing disoriented, it could be sick and should be avoided.
Some of the key health risks include:
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Rabies: Skunks are one of the primary carriers of rabies in Massachusetts. An infected skunk may show erratic behavior, excessive drooling, or loss of fear toward humans.
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Leptospirosis: This bacterial disease can be transmitted through contact with skunk urine and can cause flu-like symptoms or more serious complications in both humans and animals.
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Canine Distemper: Canine Distemper is a virus that affects dogs and can be spread by wildlife like skunks, causing neurological issues and potentially death in unvaccinated pets.
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Roundworms and Parasites: Skunks can also carry internal parasites that can infect pets and people through contact with contaminated soil or feces.
Why Call a Professional Wildlife Control Expert
Handling a skunk situation on your own can quickly go wrong, resulting in sprays, bites, or legal complications. In Massachusetts, certain wildlife species are protected, and improper handling can lead to fines.
At Critter Control of Cape Cod, we use humane, effective methods to safely remove skunks and prevent them from returning. Our team thoroughly inspects your property, identifies access points, and implements long-term exclusion strategies to keep wildlife where it belongs—away from your home.
Prevent Skunk Problems Before They Start
Even if the skunk you saw seems harmless, it's a good idea to take preventive steps to reduce the chances of future visits:
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Install skunk-proof fencing or mesh around decks and sheds
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Eliminate outdoor food sources
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Schedule a property inspection to identify vulnerabilities
Contact Critter Control of Cape Cod Today
If you’ve spotted a skunk on your property, don’t wait for a spray incident or health risk to develop. Our experienced wildlife technicians are here to help you handle the situation safely and humanely. Contact us today for an inspection or to learn more about our wildlife control services on Cape Cod.