Skunks in Wisconsin and Northern Illinois


Understanding Risks, Signs, and Safe Removal

Our Ethical Approach to Wildlife

Compassion without confrontation


At Advanced Wildlife Management, we believe skunks deserve the same care and respect as any other wildlife. While their smell may be unpleasant, their behavior is driven by instinct—not aggression. We use gentle, humane removal strategies that prioritize safety and minimize stress, both for the animal and the homeowner.

Understanding Skunks in Our Region

Striped visitors with a powerful defense

Skunks are commonly found across Wisconsin and Northern Illinois, especially in suburban and rural areas. Known for their distinctive black-and-white coloring and pungent spray, skunks often burrow under decks, sheds, porches, or foundations in search of shelter and food.

Three baby skunks are sitting next to each other on the ground.

Most Common Species in the Area

The skunks most likely roaming your backyard

These skunks are nocturnal and most active in spring and late summer.


Warning Signs of Skunks

What to look—and smell—for

  • A persistent musky odor near the home or under structures
  • Holes or signs of digging near porches, fences, or foundations
  • Skunk sightings at dawn or dusk
  • Disturbed trash or pet food left outdoors



Habitats and

Entry Points

Where skunks hide and how they get close to

your home

  • Under sheds, decks, porches, or crawlspaces
  • Near foundation gaps or utility openings
  • Inside unsecured garages or under concrete slabs
  • Along fence lines or wooded property edges



Skunks dig shallow burrows and often create multiple entrances for escape.


The Dangers of Skunk Infestations

More than just a foul odor

Odor Spray: Their sulfur-based spray can linger for days and is difficult to remove


Pet Conflicts: Curious dogs are often sprayed, leading to cleanup and health issues


Burrow Damage: Digging can undermine decks and small structures


Rabies Risk: Though rare, skunks are known carriers of rabies and may exhibit erratic behavior if infected

Safe and Humane Skunk Removal

We remove skunks without the stink


Advanced Wildlife Management uses skunk-specific techniques to avoid triggering their spray reflex:


  1. Property inspection and burrow location
  2. Use of covered, humane traps
  3. Safe relocation in compliance with state regulations
  4. Sealing of access points and burrow collapse prevention


We also provide odor control advice and follow-up visits when needed.


Repairs After Removal

Securing your home against future visitors


  • Installation of buried exclusion barriers under decks and sheds
  • Sealing foundation gaps or crawlspace entry points
  • Soil grading and hardscaping to discourage digging
  • Odor mitigation and soil treatment if necessary



Smelling something skunky around your home? Don’t wait to act.

Call us today at 815-543-0966 for fast, odor-free skunk control.