How to Get Skunks Out of Live Traps

One of the most common nocturnal animals to get accidentally caught in a live trap is the skunk. Although skunks may seem menacing because of their tendency to spray when threatened, they are vital in controlling the rodent and insect population. Project Wildlife estimates that more than 70 percent of a skunk's diet includes insects that are harmful to people. This is why you should exercise care when releasing a skunk from a live trap. By executing simple techniques, you can avoid being sprayed when releasing a skunk from a spring-loaded live trap.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Two large towels
• Protective gloves
• Brick or other heavy object

1. Ensure that any garage doors or basement windows to your home are closed before freeing the skunk. If the skunk becomes frightened, it may run into a dark, safe place, such as your garage or basement.

2. Gently drape a towel over half of the cage, covering the back end completely. This will keep the skunk from seeing you when you approach the cage. Make sure to wear protective gloves at all times during this process.

3. Slowly make your way to the front of the cage. It is important not to rush, since this can cause agitation in the skunk.

4. Gently drape the other towel over the front of the cage. Before proceeding, ensure that the skunk is positioned as far away from the cage door as possible.

5. Quickly open the cage door and prop it open with the brick or other heavy object.

6. Gently pull the towel from the front of the cage and hold it in front of you like a bullfighter would. This will hide you from the skunk.

7. Slowly back away from the opened cage while holding the towel in front of your legs the entire time.

8. Leave the cage open until the skunk leaves. The skunk may take several minutes to several hours to leave the cage; skunks are slow-moving animals that are likely frightened from being caught in the cage.

Tips & Warnings

• If the skunk sees you, crouch down quickly to make yourself appear smaller and less threatening.
• If the skunk begins to pound its front feet, it is letting you know that it is agitated and may spray. Quietly back away until the skunk calms down before proceeding. Never shake or rattle the cage, as this will frighten the skunk and cause it to spray.

References

• Internet Center for Wildlife Damage Management
• Project Wildlife: Living with Skunks