{"id":5348,"date":"2024-03-14T20:52:31","date_gmt":"2024-03-14T14:52:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/?p=5348"},"modified":"2024-03-14T20:52:31","modified_gmt":"2024-03-14T14:52:31","slug":"what-smells-do-skunks-dislike","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/what-smells-do-skunks-dislike\/","title":{"rendered":"What Smells Do Skunks Dislike? (Quick Answers)"},"content":{"rendered":"<style>img#mv-trellis-img-2::before{padding-top:75%; }img#mv-trellis-img-2{display:block;}<\/style>\n<p>Skunks are not harmful but when in danger, they spray a liquid with a very bad smell. A skunk usually comes near your garden or home to look for food and warmth.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, you may not like them around your property. Skunks have a heightened sense of smell that can be used to deter them away without harming them.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"12_smells_that_skunks_dislike_and_how_to_use_them\"><\/span><strong>12 smells that skunks dislike and how to use them:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Some smells that skunks dislike are vinegar, ammonia, black pepper, citrus scent, mothballs, peppermint oil, chili and cayenne pepper, putrescent whole egg solids, predator&rsquo;s urine, lavender, vegetable and castor oil, and coffee grounds. The method of application may vary for different items.<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_63 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<label for=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-662271fd6e7e1\" class=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-label\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseprofile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/label><input type=\"checkbox\" id=\"ez-toc-cssicon-toggle-item-662271fd6e7e1\" checked aria-label=\"Toggle\"><nav><ul class=\"ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 \"><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/what-smells-do-skunks-dislike\/#12_smells_that_skunks_dislike_and_how_to_use_them\" title=\"12 smells that skunks dislike and how to use them:\">12 smells that skunks dislike and how to use them:<\/a><ul class=\"ez-toc-list-level-3\"><li class=\"ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/what-smells-do-skunks-dislike\/#Vinegar\" title=\"Vinegar:\">Vinegar:<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/what-smells-do-skunks-dislike\/#Ammonia\" title=\"Ammonia:\">Ammonia:<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/what-smells-do-skunks-dislike\/#Black_pepper\" title=\"Black pepper:\">Black pepper:<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/what-smells-do-skunks-dislike\/#Citrus_scent\" title=\"Citrus scent:&nbsp;\">Citrus scent:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/what-smells-do-skunks-dislike\/#Mothballs\" title=\"Mothballs:\">Mothballs:<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/what-smells-do-skunks-dislike\/#Peppermint_oil\" title=\"Peppermint oil:\">Peppermint oil:<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/what-smells-do-skunks-dislike\/#Chili_and_cayenne_pepper\" title=\"Chili and cayenne pepper:\">Chili and cayenne pepper:<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/what-smells-do-skunks-dislike\/#Putrescent_whole_egg_solids\" title=\"Putrescent whole egg solids:\">Putrescent whole egg solids:<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/what-smells-do-skunks-dislike\/#Predators_urine\" title=\"Predator&rsquo;s urine:&nbsp;\">Predator&rsquo;s urine:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/what-smells-do-skunks-dislike\/#Lavender\" title=\"Lavender:\">Lavender:<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/what-smells-do-skunks-dislike\/#Vegetable_oil_and_castor_oil\" title=\"Vegetable oil and castor oil:\">Vegetable oil and castor oil:<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/what-smells-do-skunks-dislike\/#Coffee_grounds\" title=\"Coffee grounds:&nbsp;\">Coffee grounds:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/what-smells-do-skunks-dislike\/#Where_to_place_these_smells_to_prevent_skunks\" title=\"Where to place these smells to prevent skunks?\">Where to place these smells to prevent skunks?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/what-smells-do-skunks-dislike\/#What_attracts_skunks_to_your_yard_or_garden\" title=\"What attracts skunks to your yard or garden?\">What attracts skunks to your yard or garden?<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/what-smells-do-skunks-dislike\/#Other_solutions_to_keep_skunks_away_from_the_house\" title=\"Other solutions to keep skunks away from the house:\">Other solutions to keep skunks away from the house:<\/a><ul class=\"ez-toc-list-level-3\"><li class=\"ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/what-smells-do-skunks-dislike\/#Install_night_lights\" title=\"Install night lights:\">Install night lights:<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/what-smells-do-skunks-dislike\/#Install_a_solar-powered_ultrasonic_skunk_repellent\" title=\"Install a solar-powered ultrasonic skunk repellent:&nbsp;\">Install a solar-powered ultrasonic skunk repellent:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/what-smells-do-skunks-dislike\/#Install_motion_sensor_sprinkler\" title=\"Install motion sensor sprinkler:&nbsp;\">Install motion sensor sprinkler:&nbsp;<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/what-smells-do-skunks-dislike\/#Cover_trash_bins\" title=\"Cover trash bins:\">Cover trash bins:<\/a><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/what-smells-do-skunks-dislike\/#Seal_the_deck_with_chicken_wire\" title=\"Seal the deck with chicken wire:\">Seal the deck with chicken wire:<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class=\"ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2\"><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/what-smells-do-skunks-dislike\/#Final_thoughts\" title=\"Final thoughts\">Final thoughts<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/5042.-What-smells-do-skunks-dislike.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-5349\" srcset=\"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/5042.-What-smells-do-skunks-dislike.jpg 800w, https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/5042.-What-smells-do-skunks-dislike-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/5042.-What-smells-do-skunks-dislike-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/5042.-What-smells-do-skunks-dislike-728x546.jpg 728w, https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/5042.-What-smells-do-skunks-dislike-480x360.jpg 480w, https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/5042.-What-smells-do-skunks-dislike-320x240.jpg 320w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 40px), 720px\"><\/noscript><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"800\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/5042.-What-smells-do-skunks-dislike.jpg.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-5349 lazyload\" srcset=\"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/5042.-What-smells-do-skunks-dislike.jpg.webp 800w, https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/5042.-What-smells-do-skunks-dislike-300x225.jpg.webp 300w, https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/5042.-What-smells-do-skunks-dislike-768x576.jpg.webp 768w, https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/5042.-What-smells-do-skunks-dislike-728x546.jpg.webp 728w, https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/5042.-What-smells-do-skunks-dislike-480x360.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/5042.-What-smells-do-skunks-dislike-320x240.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 760px) calc(100vw - 40px), 720px\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/08\/5042.-What-smells-do-skunks-dislike.jpg\" id=\"mv-trellis-img-2\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n<p>You can use any of the items depending on their availability and your preference.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Vinegar\"><\/span><strong>Vinegar:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Vinegar, specifically white vinegar, can work incredibly well in deterring skunks from your house and garden. The strong scent of vinegar disturbs their sinus cavities and deters them away.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can spray white vinegar around your house and other areas where you see skunks visiting often. You can also use rags or cotton balls dipped in vinegar and hang them up.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Ammonia\"><\/span><strong>Ammonia:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Apart from acting as an active ingredient in cleaning your house, ammonia can also keep skunks away. You can simply soak some rags or cotton balls with ammonia and place them around your house and yard. You may have to reapply as the scent can wear off easily.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Black_pepper\"><\/span><strong>Black pepper:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Black pepper is scary to the skunks as just a little whiff of the stuff can immediately irritate the sinus. The piperine in black pepper is responsible for the spiciness and the pungency.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can spread some black pepper around the areas that skunks visit often. You can also use a homemade repellent prepared with ground black pepper or black pepper oil as one of the base elements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Citrus_scent\"><\/span><strong>Citrus scent:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Skunks do not find the smell coming from citrus fruits at all pleasant. You can use the rinds of oranges and lemons and scatter them around the areas you want to keep free from skunks. You can also try planting some citrus trees. It is an amazing natural deterrent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Mothballs\"><\/span><strong>Mothballs:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Mothballs contain naphthalene or para-dichlorobenzene that can cause dizziness or nausea hence skunks prefer keeping their distance from these. You can use mothballs by putting them into old stockings and hanging them up in your garden or yard.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Peppermint_oil\"><\/span><strong>Peppermint oil:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Skunks absolutely detest the smell of peppermint oil. The smell instantly strikes on their sinus cavities and makes them go away.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Using peppermint oil may require reapplying. You can also make your own repellent spray by mixing peppermint oil with a carrier oil and water. You can spray this mixture around your home and yard.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Chili_and_cayenne_pepper\"><\/span><strong>Chili and cayenne pepper:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Another smell that skunks absolutely dislike is the smell coming from chili and cayenne pepper. The capsaicin in these peppers creates a strong spicy scent that infuriates the sinus cavities of the skunks.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>You can spread cayenne pepper powder around the areas you want to steer clear of skunks. You can also make a solution by mixing chili powder and water and spraying the mixture around the same areas. Both of the ways will require reapplying.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Putrescent_whole_egg_solids\"><\/span><strong>Putrescent whole egg solids:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Putrescent egg solids have a strong smell that can disturb the sense of smell in many animals. As skunks have a very heightened sense of smell, they get irritated by the strong smell of sulfur coming from the putrescent egg solids.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Predator&rsquo;s urine:<\/strong>&nbsp;<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Skunks like to keep themselves away from predators. So you can use predator&rsquo;s urine to keep them at bay. Predators like a fox, coyote, bobcat, and wolf&rsquo;s urine can be used in this case. But make sure that the animal is local to your area else it might not work well.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Lavender\"><\/span><strong>Lavender:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Lavender may not be as effective as chili and cayenne pepper or peppermint oil, but skunks are known to dislike the pungent aroma coming from lavender. If you have a garden, it can be a good decision to plant some lavender trees.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Vegetable_oil_and_castor_oil\"><\/span><strong>Vegetable oil and castor oil:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>As vegetable oil and castor oil can be easily found in every household, you can use the two oils to deter skunks. Skunks don&rsquo;t like getting oily.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Both the smell and texture of vegetable and castor oil will discourage the skunks from coming near. You can just spray some oil around the yard and grass.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Coffee_grounds\"><\/span><strong>Coffee grounds:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Coffee grounds are great for your garden. You can also try using them to discourage the skunks. The strong bitter smell can give the skunks the idea of humans being near and scare them away.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Where_to_place_these_smells_to_prevent_skunks\"><\/span><strong>Where to place these smells to prevent skunks?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Using their heightened sense of smell, it&rsquo;s easy to deter skunks with smells that they dislike. These smells need to be placed in areas where they frequently visit. You can also target their entry points.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>However, skunks are comparatively more active during the night as nights are calm and dark, and humans are asleep. They go out to look for food sources and shelter during this time. <strong>You can use deterrents in the dark areas of your house like the decks and yard<\/strong>.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If they pounce on your plants, you can use the plant-safe deterrents to spray or spread near the plants. For some smelly deterrents, you can soak rags or cotton balls in the liquid and hang them up in your garden or places that they visit the most.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_attracts_skunks_to_your_yard_or_garden\"><\/span><strong>What attracts skunks to your yard or garden?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Skunks like to take shelter in dark places<\/strong>. If your yard has piles of wood or rocks, slabs, elevated shades, or any other openings, the skunks might be attracted to come and crawl to these spaces. Also, a dark deck is their favorite area to take shelter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If you&rsquo;re planning to use deterrents to deter skunks, the dark places should be the first few places on your checklist. Skunks visit your garden mostly for the low-hanging fruits that are easy for them to get hold of. Also, any garbage or leftover food can attract them.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>As the skunks eat both plant and animal materials, they can come both for the garbage and the plants. Skunks can also feed on your pet&rsquo;s food if they get access. Leftover pet food and bird feeders can attract them in the yard as well.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Other_solutions_to_keep_skunks_away_from_the_house\"><\/span><strong>Other solutions to keep skunks away from the house:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Well, you already have discovered that skunks can be deterred from your territory with the smells that they dislike. But apart from that there are many more solutions to keep skunks away from the house. Let&rsquo;s find them out below &ndash;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Install_night_lights\"><\/span><strong>Install night lights:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Skunks are most active when it&rsquo;s dark. Therefore, a good way of deterring them can be by installing night lights. You can use a flashlight to scare them away. Or you can install bright lights to light up the dark areas where skunks frequently visit.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Install_a_solar-powered_ultrasonic_skunk_repellent\"><\/span><strong>Install a solar-powered ultrasonic skunk repellent:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Pouncing their sense of hearing is one of the best ways of scaring skunks away. You can get the help of a solar-powered ultrasonic skunk repellent for the job.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is a sound emitting device that emits a high-pitched ultrasonic sound whenever the sensor detects any movements. The sound is annoying to the skunks and they are most likely to avoid returning to the area after a few times of trying.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\n\t<\/p><p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-large aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/418chHk9lUS._SL500_.jpg\" alt=\"ZOVENCHI Ultrasonic Animal Pest Repellent, Outdoor Solar Powered Pest and Animal Repeller, Waterproof Deterrent Scarer - Motion Sensor, Repel Cat, Dog, Rabbits, Fox, Raccoons, Skunk, Rats\" title=\"ZOVENCHI Ultrasonic Animal Pest Repellent, Outdoor Solar Powered Pest and Animal Repeller, Waterproof Deterrent Scarer - Motion Sensor, Repel Cat, Dog, Rabbits, Fox, Raccoons, Skunk, Rats\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-large aligncenter lazyload\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/418chHk9lUS._SL500_.jpg\" alt=\"ZOVENCHI Ultrasonic Animal Pest Repellent, Outdoor Solar Powered Pest and Animal Repeller, Waterproof Deterrent Scarer - Motion Sensor, Repel Cat, Dog, Rabbits, Fox, Raccoons, Skunk, Rats\" title=\"ZOVENCHI Ultrasonic Animal Pest Repellent, Outdoor Solar Powered Pest and Animal Repeller, Waterproof Deterrent Scarer - Motion Sensor, Repel Cat, Dog, Rabbits, Fox, Raccoons, Skunk, Rats\" data-mvt-skip=\"src\" loading=\"lazy\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/p>\n\t<div class=\"elcustomdiv1\"><p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B095GSBW36\/?tag=outdooralive-20\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" title=\"ZOVENCHI Ultrasonic Animal Pest Repellent, Outdoor Solar Powered Pest and Animal Repeller, Waterproof Deterrent Scarer - Motion Sensor, Repel Cat, Dog, Rabbits, Fox, Raccoons, Skunk, Rats\">Visit here to see this on Amazon<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Install_motion_sensor_sprinkler\"><\/span><strong>Install motion sensor sprinkler:<\/strong>&nbsp;<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>A natural and harmless way of deterring skunks is by installing a motion sensor sprinkler. You can simply drive the spikes into the ground and connect the device to a nearby water source. Set the thing up at a skunk&rsquo;s height so it can detect more accurately.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Whenever it detects the movement of a skunk, it will spray water with a whirring sound. Both the sound and the water coming out of the machine will scare the skunks away.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Cover_trash_bins\"><\/span><strong>Cover trash bins:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Being the omnivores that they are, skunks get attracted to both animal and plant material. Trash bins are one of their favorite places to search for food.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>It is important to cover any food bases to discourage the skunks and that includes covering the trash bins. Using garbage cans that let you cover the lids is the best. You also use garbage bags with bungee cords.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\n\t<\/p><p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-large aligncenter\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/31tUaLSaY5L._SL500_.jpg\" alt=\"Orbit 62100 Yard Enforcer Motion-Activated Sprinkler with Day &amp; Night Detection Modes,Black\" title=\"Orbit 62100 Yard Enforcer Motion-Activated Sprinkler with Day &amp; Night Detection Modes,Black\"><\/noscript><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-large aligncenter lazyload\" src=\"https:\/\/m.media-amazon.com\/images\/I\/31tUaLSaY5L._SL500_.jpg\" alt=\"Orbit 62100 Yard Enforcer Motion-Activated Sprinkler with Day &amp; Night Detection Modes,Black\" title=\"Orbit 62100 Yard Enforcer Motion-Activated Sprinkler with Day &amp; Night Detection Modes,Black\" data-mvt-skip=\"src\" loading=\"lazy\" data-trellis-processed=\"1\"><\/p>\n\t<div class=\"elcustomdiv1\"><p class=\"has-text-align-center\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.amazon.com\/dp\/B009F1R0GC\/?tag=outdooralive-20\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\" title=\"Orbit 62100 Yard Enforcer Motion-Activated Sprinkler with Day &amp; Night Detection Modes,Black\">Visit here to see this on Amazon<\/a><\/p><\/div>\n\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Seal_the_deck_with_chicken_wire\"><\/span><strong>Seal the deck with chicken wire:<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Your deck can be a favorite place for the skunks as it is the perfect place for them to take shelter. One good way to protect the area is by sealing it with chicken wire.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Before you do that, make sure that there are no baby skunks that are dependent on their mothers in the area.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Now seal the entire area with durable chicken wire and prepare a one-way door. This way, the remaining skunks can leave the area but won&rsquo;t be able to enter again. The wire must be at least 12 inches underneath the ground to prevent skunks from digging their way in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Final_thoughts\"><\/span><strong>Final thoughts<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Skunks dislike the smell of vinegar, ammonia, black pepper, citrus scent, mothballs, peppermint oil, chili and cayenne pepper, putrescent whole egg solids, predator&rsquo;s urine, lavender, vegetable oil, castor oil, and coffee grounds. The right use of any of these smells can deter skunks away.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Skunks are not harmful but when in danger, they spray a liquid with a very bad smell. A skunk usually comes near your garden or home to look for food and warmth.&nbsp; However, you may not like them around your property. Skunks have a heightened sense of smell that can be used to deter them &hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":5349,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"disable-in-feed":false,"article-schema-type":"","disable-critical-css":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[31],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5348"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/5"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5348"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5348\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5368,"href":"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/5348\/revisions\/5368"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/5349"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5348"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5348"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/outdooralive.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5348"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}