Why Skunks Move In During the Fall
NYSDEC says skunks look for sheltered spots to spend the winter in early fall, and spaces under porches and damaged foundations suit them. Skunks stay inactive in winter dens for long stretches but do not hibernate, and males may come aboveground even in cold weather.
Skunk Babies
Striped skunks mate in February and early March, and females give birth in May to an average litter of six. The young are often seen trailing their mother in early July.
Skunks and Rabies
When raccoon rabies spread through Southern New York, skunks were the most commonly confirmed rabies species other than raccoons.
In July 2025 the Nassau County Department of Health declared rabies an imminent public health threat; see our wildlife removal page for the details.
How We Remove Skunks
We handle skunks in two ways. Nesting removal is for skunks living inside the structure, under a deck, porch or shed. We remove the animal and cover the entry hole with wire mesh, and the job carries a 6-month written guarantee.
Exterior trapping is a 10-day trapping program for skunks that are only in the yard. There is no guarantee on the exterior program. Every job starts with a free written quote, and we serve Nassau and Suffolk County.
NYSDEC notes skunks seldom spray when caught in a box trap, and a trapped skunk is moved under a dark cover without jostling.
How to Keep Skunks Out
NYSDEC's remedy is to close or screen all holes and crawl spaces and keep dogs confined at night, and it advises against feeding cats outside after dark.
Sources
Related reading
What customers say
So let’s start with this.I was out of town, and my daughter called me in a frenzy that she saw a roach. 10 years in that house never had roaches. Here I am out of state trying to figure out the fastest way to help my daughter. Saw the name BOBBY BUGS and the reviews and figured I would call them up.I called spoke to Anthony not only did he go above and beyond for us but the service was fantastic. William who showed up at the house was simply incredible and made my daughter feel at ease. Thank you for helping our little Italian Family out in such a pinch. Grazie Mille Adriana
Fast, friendly service. I called in the morning and Will came to my house that evening. Will was great. I would definitely use Bobby's Bugs again and recommend them.
Response was super quick to my inquiry and someone was able to be sent out out quickly. Will came and explained the process, walked me through and showed me what he had done, and reviewed the service order to make sure none of my requests were missed. It was a great experience overall and truck wasn't announcing itself to the neighborhood either which was a plus.
Reviewed October 2026
Frequently asked questions
Will a trapped skunk spray?
Seldom. NYSDEC notes skunks rarely spray when caught in a box trap, and we move a trapped skunk under a dark cover without jostling it.
Why does my yard smell like skunk in the fall?
Early fall is when skunks look for a sheltered winter den, and spaces under porches and damaged foundations suit them. A strong smell around the house in September or October is a reason to check those spots.
How much does skunk removal cost on Long Island?
It depends on where the skunk is denning, how many openings there are, and whether young are present. We give a free written quote after we look.