how to live trap a skunk

3 min read 18-01-2025

Meta Description: Dealing with a skunk on your property? Learn humane and safe skunk trapping techniques. This guide covers trap selection, placement, bait, and release, ensuring both your and the skunk's safety. Avoid DIY methods; prioritize professional help if unsure.

Skunks are fascinating creatures, but their presence on your property can be problematic, especially given their infamous defense mechanism. While you might be tempted to resort to harsh methods, the most effective and humane solution is live trapping. This guide outlines how to safely and effectively live trap a skunk, ensuring both your safety and the well-being of the animal.

Choosing the Right Trap

The success of your skunk trapping efforts hinges on selecting the appropriate trap. Avoid using any traps designed to kill animals; only live traps are appropriate for this situation.

Cage Traps: The Best Option

The most humane option for trapping skunks is a large, robust cage trap. Look for one specifically designed for skunks or other medium-sized animals. These traps typically have a one-way door that closes once the skunk enters to feed.

Trap Size Matters

Ensure the trap is large enough for a skunk to comfortably move around inside. A cramped trap can stress the animal and potentially cause injury. Check the trap's dimensions against average skunk sizes in your area.

Baiting the Trap: What Skunks Love

Successfully baiting your trap is crucial for attracting the skunk. The best bait choices tend to be those that offer a strong, pungent scent.

Effective Bait Options:

Canned Sardines: The strong fishy smell is incredibly alluring to skunks.
Cat Food: High-quality wet cat food, particularly tuna-flavored varieties, works well.
Marshmallows: Surprisingly, skunks have a sweet tooth and will often be drawn to the sugary smell.

Bait Placement

Place the bait strategically within the trap, away from the trigger mechanism. You want to ensure the skunk enters fully to trigger the door, not just reach in for the bait.

Trap Placement and Setting

The location where you place your trap is equally important as the bait you use.

Strategic Location Selection:

Identify Skunk Activity: Look for signs of skunk presence, such as droppings, tracks, or areas where they've been digging.
Areas of Cover: Position the trap near areas offering the skunk cover, such as under bushes, sheds, or dense vegetation.
Avoid Obstructions: Make sure there's nothing obstructing the trap's access points.

Securing the Trap

Once the trap is baited and positioned, secure it to prevent it from being accidentally moved or tipped over. Use stakes or other appropriate anchoring methods.

Handling and Relocation

Once you've successfully trapped the skunk, carefully proceed to relocation. Safety is paramount.

Don't Touch the Skunk!

Never attempt to handle a trapped skunk directly. Their spray mechanism remains active even when trapped.

Safety Gear:

Heavy Gloves: Protect your hands from scratches and potential bites.
Eye Protection: Prevent accidental spray in your eyes.
Long-sleeved Shirt and Pants: Wear protective clothing to minimize exposure.

Transporting and Releasing the Skunk:

Use Thick Towels: Carefully cover the trap with thick towels or a blanket to prevent the skunk from spraying.
Relocation Distance: Transport the skunk to a suitable release location at least 5-10 miles away from your property.
Release Method: Open the trap in a secluded and safe area. Ensure it's a suitable habitat with access to food and shelter.

When to Call a Professional

While live trapping is often effective, it's essential to know your limitations.

Situations Requiring Professional Help:

Multiple Skunks: If you suspect multiple skunks are present, professional assistance is highly recommended.
Unsuccessful Trapping: If your trapping attempts are consistently unsuccessful, consider seeking help from an experienced wildlife removal service.
Injury or Sickness: If you encounter an injured or sick skunk, contacting a wildlife rehabilitator is crucial.

Trapping skunks is a responsible way to deal with their presence on your property. Remember to prioritize safety and humane treatment throughout the entire process. If you are unsure about any aspect of live trapping, it's always best to seek professional help. Never attempt to handle a skunk directly.