Skinks are small, quick reptiles that can become unwelcome guests in homes and yards. While they appear harmless, skinks may damage gardens, structures, and even pose health risks in some cases.

If you need to get rid of skinks on your property, this guide covers everything you need to know. Learn about skink habits and habitats to understand their behavior. Discover natural and chemical methods to deter skinks or remove an infestation. Find out when professional skink control is the best option.

Understanding Skinks: Behavior and Habitats

To effectively control skinks, it helps to understand their habits and habitat preferences. Skinks are diurnal, active reptiles that inhabit a diverse range of environments worldwide.

Skink Behavior

• Skinks are nimble runners and climbers due to their slender build. They can quickly scale fences, trees, and walls.

• These omnivores eat a varied diet including fruits, flowers, insects, snails and more. Food preferences depend on species and habitat.

• When threatened, skinks can detach their tails to distract predators while they escape. The detached tail keeps wiggling to draw the predator's attention.

Where Skinks Live

• Skinks adapt to many habitats including forests, deserts, grasslands, and urban areas.

• They seek places with ample hiding spots like vegetation, rocks, logs, and burrows. Underground tunnels in loose soil provide shelter.

• Different species prefer certain habitats - moist environments, drier regions, etc. Identifying local species' needs helps locate them on your property.

Why Remove Skinks?

Skinks may seem harmless, but it’s understandable to want to remove them. Consider if they are causing any of these issues:

• Garden damage: Burrowing and digging in lawns and garden beds.

• Structural harm: Chewing electrical wires, entering foundations through cracks.

• Health risks: Potential salmonella transmission, allergies from droppings/shed skin.

• Appearance: Some find skinks undesirable and prefer eliminating them for aesthetic reasons.

Natural Skink Deterrents

For an eco-friendly approach, use these natural methods to make your property less appealing to skinks:

Strategic Landscaping

Incorporate plants that skinks dislike:

• Strong scented plants like garlic, onions, lemongrass

• Spiky plants like rose bushes, cacti, holly shrubs

• Herbs with strong aromas including mint, lavender, basil

Physical Barriers

Block skinks’ access to areas of your property:

• Install fencing around gardens and yards

• Seal cracks and openings in structures’ foundations

• Use garden netting to protect vegetable beds and flower gardens

Natural Predators

Attract animals that prey on skinks:

• Birds of prey like hawks and owls

• Non-venomous snakes such as king snakes and garter snakes

• Let pets like cats and dogs patrol yards

Chemical Skink Elimination Methods

For significant skink infestations, specialized pesticides may be necessary. Use safely and consider environmental impact.

Choosing Pesticides

Select EPA-approved products designed specifically for reptiles. Consider:

• Effectiveness on skinks

• Safety for people, pets, beneficial wildlife

• Minimal environmental impact

Applying Pesticides

Follow all label instructions carefully:

• Use recommended rates and timing

• Target known skink areas like hiding spots and nests

• Avoid contact with water sources, plants, beneficial insects

• Wear protective gear, keep people/pets away until dried

Consider Environmental Impact

• Spot treat only problem areas, don’t overuse pesticides

• Combine with natural methods to reduce overall use

• Check local regulations on pesticide use

Professional Skink Removal

For large infestations or complex situations, professional pest control may be needed.

When to Call the Pros

Professional skink removal is recommended if:

• You have a significant, unmanageable infestation

• Skinks have caused structural damage needing repair

• Someone in your home has health concerns related to skinks

Choosing a Pest Control Company

Look for:

• Extensive experience handling skinks

• Strong reputation and positive customer reviews

• Licensing and certification in your state

What to Expect

The process will likely involve:

• Thorough inspection of your property

• Customized treatment plan based on inspection findings

• Safe implementation of plan using humane, effective techniques

• Follow up visits to monitor results if needed

Let the experts handle your skink infestation so you can enjoy your yard and home again.