Should I hire a pro or remove Sarasota skunks myself?

Sarasota skunks are known as nuisance animals. This means that they are unpleasant to have on your property. There are a variety of ways to ensure that skunks do not enter your property. Once they have entered, you need to decide on the best way to get rid of them. They are not aggressive and should pose no threat to your wellbeing. However, if they believe that they are being threatened, they will spray a noxious liquid on whomever they believe to be a threat.



Keeping them out.
• Keep garbage cans locked away so that they will not come in search of food.
• Put pet food inside.
• Do not leave rotting fruit under fruit trees.
• Remove all bushes and hedges that they can hide in.
• Close up all weak points in the façade of your home with mesh wire.

Trapping a Florida skunk
• There are a variety of live traps available. It is illegal to kill a skunk in most states. Therefore, you will need to purchase a large cage in which to trap the critter. Once you have baited it with canned fish, insect larvae or fruit you can leave it where they frequently roam. The door will slam closed and you can relocate the skunk. Make sure that you do not get sprayed while attempting to move them. Ensure that you are not relocating them to an area where they will post a threat to the ecosystem.
• Exclusion funnels. If the Sarasota skunk is in your house an exclusion funnel is your best option. It is fastened to the side of the house and baited. The skunk will be able to enter the funnel but cannot leave it. You can then relocate it safely.

When to call a pro.
• If you are not able to trap the Florida skunk yourself, you might want to consider some professional help.
• If the animal appears to be hurt it is better to call someone who is equipped to deal with an injured animal.
• If it is overly aggressive. That might mean that it is infected with rabies.
• If there are babies. Baby Sarasota skunks need very specific food and if you will not be able to care for them.

Who to call.
There are wildlife rehabilitation centers that will be able to assist you. If they cannot remove the Florida skunk, they will advise you as to someone who can. There are also companies that specialize in removing wild animals from your property.

Visit our Sarasota animal removal home page to learn more about us.

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