How to Keep a Skunk Out Of My Garbage Cans

Skunks are almost cat sized creatures with a measurement of between 15 and 37 inches, and they can weigh between 1 and 18 pounds – so there is no chance that you will miss one if it creeps into your garbage cans!



You will have to be careful when dealing with skunks, because they do have ways of protecting themselves. Of course, they are famous of their anal scent glands, which produce the awful sulphuric smell that they are so well known for. Although this tool is primarily linked to mating, it can also be used as a defensive mechanism. There is also a belief that you are likely to get bitten, but actually the rate of skunk bites is extremely low.

The issue with skunks and garbage cans is the fact that they are omnivores that can actually survive off of human waste. If they find a suitable shelter, nearby a food source, they will reside there for as long as possible. Becoming an increasing annoyance for you!

There are a few things that you can do to defend yourself and save your garbage from attracting these nuisances. The first thing you will want to do is ensure that your waste is completely properly protected. You can either seal your cans up securely or even better lock them away in a garage or shed – that way the skunks won’t even be able to smell your trash.

You can also make sure that there isn’t anywhere that they can take shelter. Skunks are often found hiding under decking, porches or even bushes. Seal these areas off and cut any low branches so they aren’t suitable for keeping out of any better weather. This will prevent skunks from thinking that your yard is a great place for them to stay.

On top of this, there are deterrents that you can employ to prevent them for entering your property in the first place – which will obviously keep them far away from you garbage cans. Because skunks are nocturnal creatures, they will actively avoid light, so if you install some garden lights – maybe solar powered or motion censored to save your energy bills – they will shy away from your yard. You may also consider chemicals, barriers, sprinklers, or if you’re feeling particularly brave, traps.

It is important to remember that skunks are terrible climbers, so if you’re looking for an easier, more simplistic way to protect your trash then place it up somewhere high – on a rack or some high up decking. Either that, or latch it up onto your garage wall – anywhere that the skunks cannot reach. If getting to your trash is too much of a challenge, then the skunks will simply leave it alone.

Go back to the How to get rid of skunks home page.

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