A skunk living under your deck is a common problem that requires careful removal. Striped skunks (Mephitis mephitis) dig under decks, porches, and sheds for shelter. They are nocturnal and may go unnoticed for weeks. The key is to encourage them to leave without startling them into spraying. This guide covers how to safely identify, remove, and prevent skunks from denning under your deck.
Key Takeaways
- Signs of skunks under deck: Droppings, cone-shaped digging holes, strong musky odor, and skunk sightings at dusk. Skunks dig 3 to 4 inch wide holes.
- Encourage them to leave: Use bright lights, ammonia-soaked rags, and noise to make the space uncomfortable. Never seal a skunk inside.
- Newspaper test: Stuff the entrance loosely with newspaper. If it is pushed out the next morning, the skunk is inside.
- Seal after they leave: Once the skunk is gone, bury 1/2 inch galvanized hardware cloth 12 inches deep with a 6 inch outward bend.
- Never trap inside: If you trap a skunk inside a confined space, it will spray heavily and may die from stress.
In This Guide
Why Skunks Choose to Den Under Decks
Skunks seek out dark, enclosed spaces that provide shelter from predators and weather. The space under a deck offers protection from rain, wind, and predators while providing easy access to food sources in your yard. The ideal den site for a skunk has a small entrance that can be easily defended, dry elevated ground, and proximity to food. Your deck checks all these boxes. Skunks are not destructive like groundhogs, but their presence creates odor problems, attracts fleas and ticks, and poses a rabies risk.
How to Tell If a Skunk Is Under Your Deck
Skunks dig cone-shaped holes 3 to 4 inches wide under decks, porches, and sheds. You may see droppings near the entrance. The musky smell of skunk spray is distinctive and carries a noticeable distance. Check for tracks in mud or snow. Skunks are most active at dusk and dawn.
The safest way to confirm a skunk is present without getting sprayed is the newspaper test. Stuff the entrance hole loosely with newspaper. If the newspaper is pushed out the next morning, the skunk is inside. This is a reliable indicator that tells you exactly when the skunk has left for the night.
How to Remove a Skunk From Under Your Deck
- Confirm the skunk has left by using the newspaper test. Check in the morning after the skunk has gone out to forage.
- Block all entrances except one during the day when the skunk is sleeping. Use hardware cloth or boards to seal the other openings.
- Place a bright work light near the remaining open entrance. Skunks are nocturnal and dislike bright light near their den.
- Place ammonia-soaked rags in a container near the open entrance. The strong ammonia smell makes the space uncomfortable.
- Wait 2 to 3 days. The skunk will leave on its own at night to find a quieter location. Do not seal the entrance yet.
- Once confirmed empty (newspaper stays in place for 2 consecutive nights), permanently seal the entrance with 1/2 inch galvanized hardware cloth buried 12 inches deep with a 6 inch outward bend.
Critical Warning
Never seal a skunk under your deck. If you trap it inside, it will spray heavily in panic, creating an unbearable odor that can last for months. The skunk may also die from stress or dehydration, causing additional odor problems. Always encourage it to leave first, then seal the entrance permanently.
Preventing Re-Entry
Once the skunk has left, permanent exclusion is essential. Use 1/2 inch galvanized hardware cloth. Dig a trench 12 inches deep along the perimeter of your deck. Bury the hardware cloth with the bottom 6 inches bent outward at a 90-degree angle. This outward bend prevents skunks from digging under the barrier. Secure the top of the hardware cloth to the deck frame with corrosion-resistant screws and large washers. Skunks are not strong climbers, so a barrier that extends from the ground to the deck frame is sufficient.
Pro Tip
If you have multiple skunks, wait until you are sure all have left before sealing. A mother skunk with kits may have the entire litter under your deck. Watch for skunk activity at dusk for several days. If you see multiple skunks emerging, wait for the kits to be old enough to follow the mother (usually 6 to 8 weeks old).
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take for a skunk to leave under a deck?
With lights and repellents, most skunks leave within 2 to 3 days. Some may take up to a week. Be patient and do not seal the entrance until the skunk has left.
Will a skunk spray under my deck?
Skunks spray when threatened. If you approach slowly and avoid startling them, they usually do not spray. The ammonia method and bright lights encourage them to leave without spraying.
Can I trap a skunk under my deck?
Yes, but a covered trap is best. Place it at the entrance with bait such as sardines or cat food. Check every 4 to 6 hours. Cover the trap with a towel or tarp before approaching to prevent spraying. See our best skunk traps guide for product recommendations.
What if I accidentally seal a skunk inside?
Immediately reopen the entrance and let the skunk out. Do not attempt to remove it while sealed inside. The skunk will spray, and the odor will be unbearable. Open the entrance and wait for the skunk to leave on its own.
Related Resources
For skunk repellents, see best skunk repellents guide. For trapping, read best skunk traps guide. For property protection, see skunk proofing guide. For odor removal, read skunk smell removal guide.
Why Trust Us
WildAnimalsCentral.com provides wildlife removal guidance based on best practices from state wildlife agencies and licensed wildlife control operators. Our methods are humane, effective, and environmentally responsible.
