Skunk Rehabber - Wildlife Alliance: (646) 569-5860

Free Kings County Animal Services: 718-272-7200

Humane Wildlife Trappers of New York City: 718-568-9414

If you need skunk control in New York City, you have a few options. First, you can attempt to solve the skunk problem yourself by reading our do-it-yourself guide. If you need outside help, you can also call Kings County Animal Services to see if they have any free resources or help for you - however, they primarily deal with dog and cat concerns. You can also call a local New York City wildlife rehabber, as they are typically a great resource for advice that is in the best welfare of the animal. If as a last resort you must hire a professional company, we recommend Humane Wildlife Trappers of New York City at 718-568-9414. To learn more about them or check their skunk removal prices, visit nycpestanimal.com.



In many cases, preventative measures can solve your New York City skunk problem - keep garbage secured, pet food indoors, and most of all when it comes to skunks, secure the perimeter of your shed, porch, deck, or house with a barrier - lattice or steel mesh is good, and it keeps New York skunks from going under the structure. If trapping and removal of the skunk is the only option you have, please do so with the help of a local agency or professional company who knows how to do it humanely and legally. Browse the resources of this site for more educational information.

Frequently Asked Questions:
Prevention: How to Keep Skunks Away
What to do with a skunk after I catch it?
Is it legal for me to trap a skunk?
How to remove skunk odor
Is a skunk active during the daytime rabid?
What does skunk feces look like?

New York City Skunk Control Information: What to do?

So you trapped a skunk. Now what? If you already made sure you can legally trap a skunk on your own, and have successfully deployed your trap, you may suddenly find yourself with no idea what to do next. I think the most logical thing is to stay well away while you formulate your game plan. You want a good plan, otherwise you may find yourself stocking up on tomato juice.

Like most wildlife you encounter, a skunk may become agitated and even try to attack if it feels cornered. They key is to keep calm so it can remain as calm as possible. Being stuck in a trap isn't exactly fun, so it will already be stressed. Do not attempt to pick up, carry, or handle the trap in any way without really decent leather or durable canvas gloves. If the skunk scratches or bites your bare skin, the wound could become seriously infected due to feces or urine contamination. It will also hurt like the dickens. Always remember your gloves.

With your gloves in place, the next thing you'll need is something to cover the trap. A sheet, large towel, or a tarp will be useful. This will further calm the skunk because it won't be able to see what's going on around it. Just make sure that whatever you use will completely cover the trap. Any gaps or openings and the skunk may remain stressed out.

For skunk and all wildlife removal in New York City, including Mahattan, Queens, Brooklyn, and the Bronx, visit New York City Wildlife Removal website to learn more

You also want to make sure you completely cover yourself too. Long sleeves and pants will help keep any skunky spray off your skin. Donning your Sunday best isn't the best idea. Find something old or at least disposable in case it does decide to spray. You don't want your favorite jeans ruined by the skunk's special brand of perfume.

Once you have properly outfitted yourself, move slowly and try not to make much noise when you approach the trap. You should already know how it works before setting it. If you hear any sort of thumping or stomping noises from the trap, back away. The skunk is agitated and your chances of getting sprayed have increased.

When releasing the skunk, choose a forested area away from any other dwellings so it won't return. Keeping the trap covered, expose the door to release it. Then back away without sudden movements. You can even use another blanket or tarp to hide behind as you leave. If you need to get rid of the skunk quickly, you can lightly mist it with the garden hose

Remember, for free services you can try (646) 569-5860 or 718-272-7200, but if you need to pay for professional help, check the prices at the nycpestanimal.com website. Or follow our do-it-yourself guide!