Skunk Information
Do you have a problem with skunks in your area? If so, here are some helpful facts and tips regarding these nocturnal animals.
- Skunks like to reside beneath sheds in and porches. If you encounter a skunk coming out from under an outdoor structure or wandering in the neighborhood, the best advice is to "back-off".
- Skunks will roam from dusk until dawn. They are scavengers and will seek out any source of food. They will also dig in grassy areas in search of grubs.
- A skunks favorite food is dog or cat food, trash and scraps left in the yard. Please be sure to bring all dog or cat food inside at night, secure your trash cans with lids, and remove any food scraps from your yard. If the source of food is eliminated, skunks will migrate to another area where there is sufficient food.
- The Borough of West Reading is not responsible for the removal of skunks, snakes, raccoons, groundhogs, or any other wild animal.
If you need assistance removing any wild animal from your property, you may wish to contact one the following:
- Ehrlich (610) 372-4500
- Critter Control, Douglassville (610) 385-4495
- Animal Rescue League, Birdsboro, (610) 373-8830
- Siani Pest Control, Inc., Robesonia (610) 589-4091
Storage of Trash/Nuisances
Please refrain from placing any type of food outside to feed stray cats, etc. By placing food outside, you are attracting skunks and other animals to the area. Residents are required to contain all trash within approved containers at all times. Trash cans with lids will prevent skunks and other animals from getting into your trash.
Council enacted a Refuse Ordinance which requires trash to be stored in durable, water-tight containers equipped with handles and tight-fitting covers that cannot be larger than thirty-five (35) gallons.
Skunks by nature, are nocturnal animals who usually forage for food in the cover of darkness. If you see a skunk during daylight hours, this could be a sign that the skunk is rabid. Signs of a rabid skunk behavior include the following:
- A skunk that is aggressive and shows no fear of humans or dogs may be a carrier. If a skunk keeps coming at you without fear, it is a very common sign that the skunk is rabid. Under normal circumstances, a skunk should be afraid of humans.
- If the skunk is drooling excessively or foaming at the mouth, it could possibly be a sign.
- Sometimes a rabid animal will attack inanimate objects. It will be completely confused and aggressive.
- Does the skunk look drunk? Is it walking funny, stumbling, and staggering? This may be a sign of a rabid animal.
- On some occasions, but certainly not every occasion, a skunk will experience hind leg paralysis.
Remedy for Odor Removal
If you have the unfortunate luck to have your pet sprayed by a skunk there are numerous remedies online to deodorize your animal and home.
- 1 quart of hydrogen peroxide
- 1/4 cup baking soda
- 1 to 2 teaspoons of liquid dish soap
Mix ingredients in an open container and use it immediately. Do not store remaining ingredients as the container can explode. Avoid splashing the product in the eyes or mouth. Allow the solution to remain for five minutes before rinsing with water. Repeat as needed.
Tip...Consider installing mesh and lattice fencing in any open area under porches, sheds, and decks to prevent skunks and other animals from living there. No permit is required for this preventative measure, however, please remember to place a call to PA 1 Call at 811 before digging.