When you think of skunks, chances are the first thing that comes to mind is their unmistakable smell. But these black-and-white critters aren’t all bad news—in fact, they can actually be helpful guests in your backyard when handled properly. We’re not saying you should let them take up residence under your porch or shed, but you might be surprised to know how beneficial they are. 

Curious why you might want skunks around but not too close? Let’s dive in.

The Benefits of Having Skunks Nearby

Once upon a time, the philosophy was simple: the only good pest was a dead pest. Now, modern pest control isn’t about eliminating every critter—it’s about balance. And skunks? They play a surprisingly helpful role in your ecosystem.

Here’s what they do for you:

Natural Rodent Control
Skunks love to snack on rodents—the same ones that chew wood, nest in your walls, and create fire hazards by gnawing on wires. Fewer rodents means a safer home for your family.

Lawn & Garden Helpers
Dreaming of a lush lawn? Skunks are excellent at grub control. They dig up and eat the grubs that damage grass and other plants, which is great news for homeowners, gardeners, and farmers alike.

The Downsides (and How to Prevent Them)

Of course, it’s not all roses—or roses sprayed with skunk musk. Skunks come with a few challenges, and the biggest one is obvious: the smell. They usually only spray when they feel threatened or need to mark territory, but no one wants that risk in their backyard.

Here’s how to skunk-proof your home:

• Install wire fencing around decks, porches, patios, and sheds to block access.
• Avoid venting dryer exhaust into crawl spaces—warm air attracts wildlife in winter.
• Protect gardens and fruit trees with a simple 2-foot fence.
• If you have pets that roam freely, take extra precaution to discourage skunks from hanging around.

What to do if a Skunk Moves In

If a skunk has already set up shop on your property, it’s time to call a professional wildlife control company. At Thomas Pest Services, we offer safe, humane skunk removal—and more importantly, skunk deterrent services and structural modifications to keep them from coming back.

Removing a skunk is only half the job. Preventing future infestations ensures your home stays wildlife-free while letting skunks do their good work outside, not under your deck.

The Bottom Line

Skunks aren’t villains. With proper wildlife management, you can enjoy the benefits they bring along—natural pest control and a healthier lawn—without the drawbacks of odor or property damage. Keep them passing through, and you might even begin to appreciate those little stinkers (from a safe distance, of course).

If a skunk gets too close for comfort, give us a call. We’ll handle the problem safely and help you protect your property long-term.

Call Thomas Pest Services today at (518) 458-7378 or contact us online for expert wildlife control in upstate New York.