Do mothballs repell skunks?

The smell of mothballs repels skunks. However, since mothballs are toxic if eaten or chewed, they must be kept away from children and pets. Other smells that drive away skunks are citrus, ammonia and the urine of a predator, such as a dog or coyote.

Since skunks are nocturnal, motion-activated night lights often scare them away. If a homeowner is able to locate a skunk's lair, several shovelfuls of dirt close it up so that the den is inaccessible. In addition, any open food should be removed, covered tightly or fenced. This includes trash cans, compost piles, pet dishes, bird feeders and gardens.