Fall Yard Cleanup Tips to Keep Skunks Away

As the leaves begin to fall and the temperatures drop, wildlife like skunks start preparing for winter. Autumn is a busy time for these animals as they search for food and safe places to den. Unfortunately, your yard may offer everything a skunk is looking for during this season. A proper fall cleanup can help prevent unwanted skunk activity and keep your home and family safe.

Why Skunks Are More Active in Fall

Skunks become more active in the fall as they forage to build up fat reserves for winter. Though they do not hibernate fully, they spend much of the colder months in dens and reduce their activity. This makes fall the prime season for skunks to seek shelter under decks, sheds, porches, or woodpiles.

They are drawn to food sources like fallen fruit, bird seed, pet food left outside, and even garbage. If your yard is cluttered or has easy access to shelter, it becomes a perfect spot for a skunk to settle in before winter.

Remove Food Sources

The first and most important step in deterring skunks is removing anything they might eat. This includes:

• Picking up any fallen fruit or nuts from trees

• Storing pet food indoors or in secure containers

• Using wildlife-proof trash bins with tight-fitting lids

• Cleaning up barbecue grills and outdoor eating areas

• Avoiding the use of compost piles that include food scraps unless properly sealed

Even small scraps can attract a skunk passing through the area.

Seal Off Potential Den Sites

Skunks are burrowing animals and prefer to nest in quiet, dark spaces. Common den sites include areas under porches, decks, sheds, and brush piles. To keep skunks from moving in, inspect your property for access points.

Use heavy-gauge wire mesh to seal off the base of decks or raised structures. Fill in holes and burrows around the foundation and make sure sheds and garages are fully enclosed. Always check for active animals before sealing an area to avoid trapping a skunk inside.

Clear Out Yard Clutter

Skunks may use piles of wood, leaves, or brush as temporary shelter. These areas also attract insects and small rodents, which are food sources for skunks. Rake and remove leaf piles, trim overgrown shrubs, and neatly stack firewood away from your home and off the ground if possible.

A clean yard reduces both shelter options and feeding opportunities for skunks and other nuisance wildlife.

Protect Your Garden and Lawn

Grubs and insects in lawns and gardens are a favorite food source for skunks. In fall, they may dig small cone-shaped holes in your grass while foraging. You can reduce this behavior by treating your lawn for grubs and using fencing or netting around garden beds.

If you compost, use a bin with a locking lid and avoid composting meat, dairy, or greasy foods. These items can attract not only skunks but also raccoons and opossums.

Disease Risks from Skunks

While skunks are usually shy and non-aggressive, they can carry diseases that pose a risk to people and pets. One of the most serious concerns is rabies. Skunks are among the top carriers of rabies in North America and may show unusual behavior if infected, such as wandering during the day or showing no fear of humans.

Skunks can also carry leptospirosis, a bacterial disease spread through their urine. This can contaminate soil or water and may infect humans or animals through skin contact or ingestion. Additionally, skunks often carry fleas and ticks, which can spread to pets if they come into contact with an infected animal or bedding.

Keeping skunks away from your home is one of the best ways to reduce the chances of exposure to these diseases.

When to Call a Professional

If you notice signs of skunk activity around your home such as digging, tracks, or a strong musky odor, it may be time to consult a licensed wildlife control expert. A professional can safely and humanely remove the animal if necessary and help you skunk-proof your property for the future.

Skunks may become aggressive if cornered or frightened and can spray in self-defense. Handling them on your own is not recommended.

Stay Skunk Free This Fall

Taking time to clean up your yard in the fall is more than just good housekeeping. It is a smart and effective way to keep skunks away before winter arrives. By removing food sources, sealing off shelter spots, and staying alert for signs of wildlife activity, you can reduce the chances of skunks settling in near your home.

If you need help with prevention or humane removal, contact Wildlife X Team of SE Michigan to schedule a fall inspection and take action before the cold weather sets in.