Skunk Removal in Arcadia, CA
Discovering holes in your lawn every morning? Catching that distinctive skunk smell around your property? Arcadia’s location at the base of the San Gabriel Mountains makes it prime territory for skunk activity. Armed Exterminators provides expert skunk removal that keeps you, your family, and pets safe from spray.
Why Arcadia Attracts Skunks
Arcadia’s unique environment creates ideal skunk habitat:
- Foothill proximity provides natural skunk populations
- Well-watered lawns support abundant grubs
- Peacock habitat areas offer diverse food sources
- Historic estates with extensive grounds
- Santa Anita Wash serves as wildlife corridor
Identifying Skunk Problems
Lawn Damage
- Cone-shaped holes 3-4 inches deep
- Rolled-back sod while hunting grubs
- Multiple excavations appearing overnight
- Dead grass patches from digging
- Disturbed garden beds
Other Evidence
- Burrow entrances under structures
- Distinctive tracks in soft soil
- Strong musky odor near dens
- Pet food disappearing
- Garbage disturbance
Our Skunk Control Process
1. Thorough Inspection
- Locate active burrows and travel routes
- Identify grub infestations attracting skunks
- Check for babies (peak season March-June)
- Assess spray risk zones
2. Strategic Removal
- Covered cage traps to prevent spraying
- Proper bait placement for effectiveness
- Careful handling by trained professionals
- Relocation following California guidelines
3. Exclusion Methods
- Burrow sealing after removal
- Barrier installation under structures
- Foundation protection against digging
- Perimeter deterrents where needed
4. Odor Solutions
- Enzyme-based odor elimination
- Structural deodorization
- Fabric and surface treatment
- Yard decontamination
Arcadia-Specific Challenges
Problem Areas
- Upper Arcadia - direct mountain access
- Peacock District - established populations
- Santa Anita Oaks - large properties
- Foothill Estates - canyon adjacency
Activity Patterns
- Late Winter: Mating season begins
- Spring: Mothers raising kits
- Summer: Young skunks dispersing
- Fall: Preparing winter dens
Health & Safety Risks
Disease Concerns
- Rabies - skunks are primary carriers
- Distemper - affects pets
- Parasites - fleas, ticks, mites
- Leptospirosis - bacterial infection
Spray Dangers
- Eye irritation and temporary blindness
- Respiratory distress
- Severe nausea
- Contamination lasting weeks
Prevention Strategies
- Lawn treatment - eliminate grubs
- Secure structures - close off crawl spaces
- Motion lighting - deter nighttime visits
- Remove food sources - pet food, fallen fruit
- Maintain property - clear hiding spots
- Water management - fix leaks, remove sources
- Professional monitoring - catch problems early
Why Professional Service Matters
- Safety equipment - avoid spray incidents
- Disease prevention - proper handling protocols
- Complete solutions - not just temporary fixes
- Legal compliance - permitted wildlife control
- Experience counts - we know skunk behavior
Service Areas
Prompt response throughout:
- All Arcadia neighborhoods
- Monrovia (adjacent)
- Temple City (nearby)
- San Marino (local)
- Sierra Madre (neighboring)
Frequently Asked Questions
When are skunks most active in Arcadia?
Skunks are nocturnal and most active from dusk to dawn. In Arcadia, they’re particularly active February through October, with peak activity during mating season (February-March) and when raising young (April-June).
Why is my lawn full of holes?
Skunks dig cone-shaped holes while hunting for grubs, their favorite food. Arcadia’s well-irrigated lawns support large grub populations. Professional lawn treatment combined with skunk removal provides the best solution.
Can skunks spray more than once?
Yes, skunks can spray 5-6 times in succession, though they prefer to conserve their spray. They’ll give warning signs first: stamping feet, raising tail, and turning their back to threats.
Do mothballs or ammonia repel skunks?
These home remedies rarely work and may be illegal to use outdoors in California. Skunks quickly adapt to smells. Professional exclusion and removal provide permanent solutions.
What if a skunk sprays my pet?
Keep pets outside initially. Mix 1 quart hydrogen peroxide, 1/4 cup baking soda, and 1 teaspoon dish soap. Apply immediately, avoiding eyes. Rinse thoroughly. We can recommend professional pet groomers experienced with skunk odor.
Protect your Arcadia property from skunk problems.
Call (626) 256-3200 for professional skunk removal today.
Safe Removal • Odor Control • Foothill Wildlife Experts
“They removed skunks from our property without any spraying incidents. Very professional and knowledgeable about local wildlife patterns.” ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
— David L., Upper Arcadia