Gretchen Messersmith's Skunk Odor Removal Update How to Get Rid of Skunks What To Do When A Skunk Moves In When a skunk decides your yard is theirs and the question of how to get rid of skunks comes up, there are things you can do to remove them and their scents safely. There are some simple ways to help Pepe realize he's overstayed his welcome. There are two main ways to get rid of a skunk. Sealing off the Den When skunks move in, they generally choose openings in the bottom of a home to call their own. Finding these and sealing them up is the key to rolling up the welcome mat. There are some warnings that go along with this, however. If the skunk happens to be a female and it's spring or early summer, there is a possibility that her offspring will be in the den also. This means sealing off the adult can create a heart-wrenching situation - not to mention the fact the offspring will be left under a house without access to nourishment. If sealing the hole is desired, there are some tricks to try to make it possible without getting sprayed. The steps involved include: Locating the den. Take advantage of daytime hours to carefully inspect a home's foundation. Look for any cracks or holes that might allow a critter to get inside. Don't venture too close though. If it's daytime, the skunk is likely at home. Just find it and remember the spot. Sealing it off. To ensure the skunk is out of the hole before you seal it off, drizzle a flour or powder patch in front of the den. Once the sun goes down, go out and check for tracks. If the skunk has left, it's time to seal up the hole. Before this is done, use a flashlight to see if babies happen to be present. If they are, calling animal control or hiring a professional trapper might be in order if your intent is not to put them down. If all's clear, seal up the den tightly with boards. If the critter cannot get back in, it will move on. Trap And Release This method does present the risk of someone getting sprayed, but many see it as a humane choice. Rather than wait until the skunk goes out to forage, consider putting a trap in front of or near the hole. A fairly small box trap can help prevent spraying. The benefit of this method is that the skunk can be caught and removed to a more appropriate location. Do check with local authorities for any legalities involved. It is also possible to trap and release in a personal yard once the den has been sealed. Again, look out for babies. Reclaiming your yard once a skunk has hung its hat can be done, but it might take a little bit of work. Once Pepe has moved on, do take the time to ensure repellant measures are put into place so he doesn't try to come back.