Q. There is a skunk stuck in my window well! How do I rescue it?
A. Skunks have poor eyesight and can accidentally fall into a window well. The unfortunate part is that they can’t get out on their own!
Below are a couple of methods that can be used to get a skunk out of a window well. In addition to these, you can contact a reputable wildlife removal company. If the skunk has been in the window well for more than 24 hours or if it looks sick or injured, contact your local wildlife rehabilitation centre.
Method #1- Using a Ramp
Skunks aren’t great climbers but if your window well isn’t too deep (about 0.6 metres or less) using a wooden board to act as a ramp may work. A couple of things to consider:
- The board should be at least 30 cm wide.
- You can attach an old towel or piece of carpet to the board to make it easier for the skunk to climb.
- Approach the window well slowly and gently place the board in the window well on a gradual slope.
- Skunks are nocturnal meaning they are active at night. Therefore, the skunk may not feel comfortable leaving until it is dark outside. Make sure to keep people and pets away, having someone check the window well periodically.
Method #2 – Using a Bucket
If the ramp in the method outlined above is too steep, the skunk may not be able to climb it. In these cases:
- Use a deep bucket that can be placed in the window well.
- Tie some rope or string around the handle.
- Put some canned tuna or wet cat food at the back of the bucket.
- Carefully lay the bucket on its side inside the window well.
- And now you patiently wait! If possible, try and stay out of sight.
- Once the skunk goes in the bucket, use the rope to slowly tilt the bucket so it’s upright, gently lift the bucket out of the window well and lay the bucket on its side so that the opening is facing away from you.
- Carefully back away.
To keep skunks and other animals out of your window well, you can buy window well covers or you can make a cover out of 1” x 1” welded wire mesh.
Scared of Getting Sprayed?
While it’s commonly known that skunks spray, it’s not as well known that they spray as a last resort when they feel threatened. They even give a couple of warnings before they release their very distinct scent. One of these signs is stomping their front paws, the second is lifting their tail. If you notice any of these, it’s best to move away! To help reduce the chances of a skunk spraying, approach the window well slowly and talk softly so not to startle it.
