705-424-7743
"Varmint Control Specializes in Wildlife Animal Control. We do not deal with lost pets, dogs or cats"
Skunk Removal in Barrie by Varmint Control
If you're dealing with unwanted skunk visitors around your property in Barrie, look at Varmint Control for professional and effective skunk removal services. Our team at Varmint Control has the knowledge and professionalism to handle skunk-related issues promptly and efficiently. For professional skunk removal in Barrie, contact us to schedule an on-site assessment.
How We Conduct Our Skunk Removal Service in Barrie
Our skunk removal process is based on inspection, removal, and exclusion to prevent recurrence.
Step-by-step approach:
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Inspection: Thorough property evaluation to locate dens, entry points, evidence of skunk activity, and assess whether young are present.
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Humane eviction: Depending on the den’s structure and the presence of offspring, one-way doors or live traps can be used.
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Exclusion repair: Seal and reinforce all entry points using buried galvanized mesh, structural screening, or other durable exclusion systems.
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Cleanup & Deodorization: Sanitize, deodorize, and disinfect the former den area to neutralize odours and reduce attractants.
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Optional deodorization: Recheck the site after removal to confirm no return access and verify exclusion remains secure.
We strive to minimize animal stress while ensuring full resolution of the issue.
Why Skunks Are Attracted to Urban Properties
Understanding the factors that draw skunks to residential properties helps prevent future issues.
Common attractants in urban settings:
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Unsecured garbage bins or compost piles.
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Gaps under steps, decks, or sheds offer shelter.
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Insect-infested lawns (grubs are a primary food source).
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Pet food or bird seed left outdoors.
Preventive strategies recommended by our team:
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Install hardware cloth under all exterior structures.
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Keep yards clean and free from food debris.
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Apply lawn treatments to reduce grub populations.
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Close crawlspace vents during inactive periods.
We aim to provide long-term mitigation plans based on site-specific vulnerabilities. For detailed guidance on skunk prevention and removal, please refer to our FAQ section.
Common Skunk-related Complaints
Homeowners and businesses in Barrie often report the following issues related to skunks:
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Strong, lingering odour: The skunk’s defensive spray has a strong smell that can last for days or even weeks, affecting homes and vehicles.
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Lawn and garden damage: Skunks dig small holes in search of grubs and insects, often damaging gardens and lawns.
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Burrowing under structures: Skunks commonly nest under decks, porches, and sheds, creating burrows that can lead to structural damage.
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Pet confrontations: Pets may be sprayed, resulting in distress and difficulty removing the odour.
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Potential disease carriers: Skunks can carry rabies and other diseases transmissible to humans and animals.
Varmint Control responds to all these concerns with humane and lawful methods of removal and exclusion.
Signs You Have a Skunk Infestation
Skunks are known for their strong scent defence but tend to be discreet due to their nocturnal habits. Recognizing an infestation early can help in managing the problem effectively. Here are signs that may indicate a skunk problem on your property:
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Visual confirmation:
Skunks are elusive and active mainly at night, making them hard to spot. If you suspect their presence, consider installing motion sensor cameras with night vision. Alternatively, when skunks venture out and return before dawn, monitor your yard starting at dusk.
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Smell:
Skunks can emit a noticeable odour from urine or nesting materials without spraying. If you detect a persistent smell, consult a skunk removal professional in Barrie for more details about the source of the odour.
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Droppings and tracks:
Skunk droppings resemble those of cats but contain undigested items such as berries and insects. You might also find distinctive tracks in soft soil or snow. Skunk tracks show five toes with claws; the rear pads are longer than the front pads.
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Holes in your lawn:
Skunks can dig their dens or use old ones, like abandoned raccoon dens. They also dig in lawns to search for insects, leaving half-moon-shaped holes that narrow into cones. Multiple feeding holes suggest a skunk infestation.
If you notice these signs, contact Varmint Control for professional skunk removal in Barrie. Hiring specialists ensures the safe and efficient management of skunks, which can be harmful and transmit diseases.
What Sets Varmint Control Apart
At Varmint Control, we are affiliated with the Ontario Fur Managers Federation to provide top-notch skunk removal services in Barrie. Ontario Fur Managers Federation is renowned for its humane and ethical wildlife trapping and removal practices, which we also share. Our approach focuses on safely capturing and relocating skunks to ensure the well-being of both the animals and our clients.
Risks of DIY Skunk Removal Methods
Varmint Control advises against untrained attempts and offers legal, humane solutions for skunk removal due to these reasons:
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Store-bought traps may violate Ontario wildlife regulations if used improperly.
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Inexperienced handling can provoke defensive spraying, causing prolonged odour issues.
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Relocating skunks without permits is not permitted under provincial law.
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DIY exclusion methods often fail to account for hidden entry points.
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Mishandling skunk dens with offspring can result in orphaned young and repeat infestations.
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Homeowners risk injury or contamination when interacting with wild animals.
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Skunks, cornered or stressed, may bite, increasing the chance of disease transmission.
Why Professional Skunk Removal Is Important
Attempting to trap or remove a skunk without experience can result in injury or contamination. Varmint Control offers several key advantages:
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Licensed and trained technicians: Our team follows the Ministry of Natural Resources guidelines for humane wildlife control.
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Safe, humane removal: We use industry-standard methods that prevent harm to both the skunks and the environment.
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Preventive services: After removal, we identify and seal entry points to reduce the chances of re-entry.
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Odour management: We offer deodorization services where necessary to neutralize skunk spray effects.
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Legal compliance: We ensure all removal is conducted in accordance with provincial wildlife regulations.
Our team strives to provide solutions that are both effective and sustainable.
Skunk Behaviour and Nesting Patterns
Understanding skunk habits helps prevent recurring issues. Key behavioural patterns include:
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Nocturnal activity: Skunks are active during the night and usually seek shelter during the day.
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Seasonal nesting: Mating occurs in late winter; females will seek sheltered spaces to give birth in the spring.
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Attraction to food sources: Garbage bins, compost, and pet food are common attractants.
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Return to den sites: Skunks are known to return to previously used burrows if not properly excluded.
Varmint Control’s skunk removal strategies in Barrie are built around skunk biology and behaviour for more lasting results.
Skunk’s Damage to Your Home or Business
Skunks are notorious for digging holes in lawns and gardens and searching for food. This behaviour can lead to unsightly and costly damage to your property. Additionally, skunks may find their way into crawl spaces, basements, or under decks, creating potential structural issues and safety concerns.
When faced with skunk-related challenges in Barrie, trust Varmint Control for professional skunk removal services. Our commitment to humane practices and practical solutions sets us apart, ensuring a skunk-free environment for your home or business. Contact us today to schedule professional skunk removal and safeguard your property in Barrie.
