How much does skunk removal cost?
How much does skunk removal cost?
$300 – $700 average cost
Skunk removal cost
Skunk removal costs $300 to $700, depending on the number of skunks and the complexity of the removal. The average cost of skunk removal is $300 to $350 for simple removals involving only one animal, while more complex removals or those involving multiple skunks can cost up to $700. Emergency or weekend services incur higher fees.
| Removal type | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Single skunk (simple) | $300 – $350 |
| Single skunk (complex) | $350 – $600 |
| Multiple skunks | $400 – $700 |
| Dead skunk | $150 – $250 |
| Emergency or weekend | $375 – $700 |
Cost of skunk removal by method
Wildlife removal costs vary depending on the method used to remove the skunk and the cleanup required. Live trapping costs $300 to $600 to humanely remove the skunk from your property. Exclusion costs a bit more to seal entry points and prevent future intrusions. Odor removal and cleanup services range from $200 to $1,000, ensuring affected areas are thoroughly neutralized and sanitized.
| Removal method | Average cost |
|---|---|
| Inspection and assessment | $100 – $300 |
| Live (humane) trapping | $300 – $600 |
| Exclusion | $350 – $700+ |
| Odor removal and cleanup | $200 – $1,000 |
Inspection and assessment
Any wildlife removal, including skunk removal, starts with a detailed property inspection to identify animal activity, locate dens, and pinpoint entry points. This inspection typically costs $100 to $300. However, the contractor may waive this fee or apply it to the final bill if they perform removal services later.
This process includes:
Identifying burrows, tracks, or droppings
Assessing damage caused by skunks
Evaluating potential attractants, such as food sources or shelter
Live trap
Live trapping is a common method used by professionals to capture skunks without harming them. This method costs $300 to $600 and involves setting up specialized traps in strategic locations near den entrances or high-activity areas.
Traps: Professionals bait cage traps with food items like sardines or marshmallows.
Monitoring: They check the traps frequently to minimize stress on the captured animal.
Relocation: In compliance with local regulations, they relocate captured skunks to suitable habitats far from residential areas.
Wildlife exclusion
Professional wildlife exclusion services focus on preventing skunks from re-entering properties after removal. This humane method ensures long-term protection and reduces the likelihood of future infestations. Exclusion skunk removal has slightly higher costs of $350 to $700 due to the more extensive process.
One-way exclusion funnels: These devices allow skunks to exit their dens but prevent them from re-entering. The professional installs them at den openings after sealing all other potential entry points.
Sealing entry points: Professionals use materials like wire mesh, fencing, or vent covers to block access under decks, porches, crawl spaces, and foundations.
Habitat modification: Removing attractants such as unsecured garbage bins or outdoor pet food further deters skunks.
Skunk odor removal
Skunk odor can linger even after the removal of the animal. Professionals charge anywhere from $200 to $1,000 for skunk odor removal, relying on advanced deodorizing techniques to neutralize odors and sanitize affected areas.
Specialized equipment: Tools like ozone generators or thermal fogging machines penetrate materials to eliminate odors.
Property restoration: Cleaning contaminated areas ensures no residual smell attracts other wildlife.
Skunk removal cost factors
Several factors influence the cost of skunk removal, including the method used and the complexity of the removal process. Other factors that affect the cost include:
Location and accessibility: Easily accessible areas generally cost less than hard-to-reach spots like crawl spaces or attics.
Number of skunks: Removing multiple skunks typically requires more time and resources than removing a single animal.
Complexity of removal: Simple removals are less expensive than complex ones that involve multiple entry points or dens.
Timing of removal: Emergency or after-hours services often incur higher fees than standard daytime services.
Seasonal variations: Spring may bring higher prices due to animals nesting and raising young, which complicates removal. Winter removals can also be challenging, as skunks seek warm shelter in hard-to-reach areas.
Property size: Larger properties may require more extensive inspections and potentially more traps, increasing the total expense.
Additional services: Additional services, such as dead skunk removal, damage repair, or preventive measures, add to the overall cost of the removal process.
Home repairs after skunk removal
After skunk removal, professional wildlife control companies may provide repair services to fix damage caused by the skunks. Repairs range from $500 to $4,000 or more, depending on the extent of the damage, and are usually billed separately from the removal fee.
| Repair type | Average repair cost |
|---|---|
| Deck repair cost | $750 – $2,000 |
| Crawl space repair and cleaning cost | $500 – $4,000 |
| Landscaping repair costs | $300– $1,500 |
| Foundation repair cost | $1,500 – $7,300 |
| Drywall repair cost | $100 – $400 per hole |
| Wiring repair cost | $4 – $9 per square foot |
| Ductwork repair cost | $25 – $55 per linear foot |
| Siding repair cost | $2 – $14 per square foot |
| Insulation replacement cost | $2 – $8 per square foot |
How to prevent skunks in your yard
To prevent skunks from returning to your property and reduce the likelihood of future damage, professionals and homeowners use the following strategies:
Seal openings: Use wire mesh, sheet metal, or concrete to seal all openings under structures like homes, garages, and sheds.
Bury fencing: Bury fencing 1 to 2 feet deep around areas where skunks might dig, such as under decks or porches.
Remove attractants: Secure garbage cans with tight-fitting lids. Remove pet food and birdseed from outdoor areas.
Grub control: Treat lawns for grubs, as they are a primary food source for skunks.
Remove debris: Clear your yard of woodpiles, brush, and other debris that could serve as shelter for skunks.
Elevate beehives: Place beehives on stands at least 3 feet high to prevent skunks from reaching them.
Deterrents: Use ammonia, black pepper, or peppermint as deterrents in garbage cans to discourage skunks.
Regular maintenance: Regularly check for signs of skunks, such as tracks or digging, and deal with issues promptly.
Skunk removal FAQs
How do you remove skunk smell from a dog?
To remove skunk smell from a dog, use a store-bought de-skunking shampoo or make your own by mixing 1 quart of 3% hydrogen peroxide, ¼ cup baking soda, and 1 teaspoon liquid soap. Apply the mixture, then rinse and shampoo the dog thoroughly. Avoid getting the mixture in the dog's eyes.
How do you remove skunk smell from a house?
Professional odor removal services use industrial-strength deodorizers and ozone generators to eliminate skunk odor from homes. These experts can treat carpets, upholstery, and HVAC systems to ensure thorough odor elimination throughout the house.
How do you remove a skunk?
Licensed wildlife control professionals are best equipped to handle skunk removal. They use humane trapping methods and have the necessary permits for relocation. These experts can also identify and seal entry points to prevent future skunk intrusions.
How do you remove skunk smell from skin?
To remove skunk smell from skin, use a mixture of dish soap, baking soda, and hydrogen peroxide. Apply the mixture, rinse thoroughly, and follow up with regular soap. Avoid getting the mixture in your eyes.
Does tomato juice remove skunk smell?
Tomato juice does not effectively remove skunk smell. It may temporarily mask the odor but does not chemically neutralize the sulfur-based compounds (thiols and thioacetates) responsible for the smell.
Getting quotes for skunk removal
When seeking estimates for skunk removal, look for the following:
Research companies in your area that specialize in skunk removal and check their reviews and ratings on HomeGuide or Google to ensure they are reputable.
Ask each company to provide a breakdown of costs for inspection, trapping, and relocation, and clarify if the estimate includes additional services like damage repair or sanitizing.
Get quotes from several companies to compare prices and ensure each estimate covers the same scope of work.
Check that the company has the necessary licenses and insurance to handle wildlife removal safely and legally.
Ask about options for preventing future skunk infestations, such as sealing entry points or installing deterrents.
Find out if the company offers emergency services and what the additional costs might be if you need immediate assistance.
Questions to ask a wildlife removal service
When hiring a service for skunk removal, it's important to ensure that you're working with a reputable and competent company. Ask these questions before entering into a contract:
Are you licensed and insured to handle skunk removal?
Do you use humane methods of handling skunks?
Will you do a detailed inspection of the house and property to identify all skunk entry points?
How will you handle the skunk(s), including trapping and relocation?
How will you ensure the safety of me, my family, and my pets during the removal process?
Do you repair any damage caused by the skunks?
What steps do you take to prevent future skunk infestations?
How much do you charge for your skunk removal services?
Do you offer any kind of warranty or guarantee for skunk removal?
Using our proprietary cost database, in-depth research, and collaboration with industry experts, we deliver accurate, up-to-date pricing and insights you can trust, every time.