How to Properly Trap and Release a Skunk

With the turning point of Winter into Spring, many homeowners will once again be plagued by the presence of skunks, maybe in their backyard, or just passing through their neighborhood.  While there are many skunk repellents that can be bought at your local home store, many homeowners will search for alternative ways to safely remove them.

One such alternative to skunk poison is to trap it (safely) and release it in another location, such as a wild, wooded area.

1.  Choose a Live Trap
Choosing the proper live trap is important to remain safe while trapping a skunk.  Trap dimensions should measure 11 x 12 x 30 inches, and should have a release mechanism that does not require you to come in direct contact with the trap when opening the door to release the skunk.

2.  Bait the Trap
Many options are available when choosing the bait for your skunk trap.  Common baits include peanut butter on bread, fresh canned fish, cat food, or crisp bacon.  Place bait on a small plate at the back of the trap.  Do not use items that would be harmful or considered skunk poison.

3.  Place the Trap
Place the trap in an area where you see the skunk regularly, as close to it’s den as possible (if you were able to locate it).  Follow the instructions for the live trap you are using to set it up properly.

Releasing a Trapped Skunk

Contacting your local animal control is the safest way to remove a trapped skunk from your property.  Animal Control Specialists are trained to remove skunks from traps in order to remain safe and to protect the skunk from being harmed.  In addition, professionals will check for any baby skunks left behind in the den, and remove those as well.

If you are one who is really not comfortable with the trapping and removal of a skunk, there are other methods that you could try in order to deter skunks from your property.

There are a few types of homemade skunk repellents that can be made from common household items that you probably already have in your kitchen.  Not only will you save money by not buying manufactured products, but the items needed are non-toxic to the environment.

A variety of natural skunk repellents are also available to help you rid your yard of the pesky skunks.  From digging holes to spraying your pets, skunks are one of the more troublesome critters that come out of hibernation in Spring.  If you are one of the many, and unlucky, people who have had your pet sprayed by a skunk, you’ve probably tried tomato juice only to realize that the smell just didn’t go away.  In order to remove skunk smell from my dog, I now make sure I keep a bottle of Skunk Odor Shampoo in my home (just in case).