As evening falls across Colorado, skunks start to stir, slipping through yards in search of snacks and shelter. They may look harmless, but one spray can leave your space reeking for days. Luckily, their powerful sense of smell—so good at finding food—can be used against them.
Homeowners from Denver to Estes Park have found simple ways to make skunks think twice. Certain scents act like invisible fences, sending them elsewhere without harm. Whether it’s under the deck or near your bins, the right smell makes all the difference.
From citrus peels to spicy blends, these 15 natural repellents are trusted by gardeners and neighbors alike. They help create a yard that says “keep walking” to curious skunks—no traps or chemicals required.
1. Citrus Peels
Skunks absolutely detest the strong, acidic scent of citrus fruits. Their sensitive noses find the compounds in orange, lemon, and grapefruit peels particularly offensive, sending them scurrying in the opposite direction…