How to Build a Skunk Trap
Skunks can be a major nuisance to homeowners in rural or suburban areas. Common throughout North America, skunks make dens in hollow logs and even burrow under porches or against foundations to raise their young. They can damage a farmer's corn crop or destroy a small garden in their search for grubs and edible plants. Their love of garbage often leads to trash cans that have been overturned in the night, leaving a mess of scattered trash in yards and sidewalks. Though there are many skunk traps available on the market, building your own isn't too hard. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Barrel or garbage can
- Picnic table
- Plank of wood (18 inches long)
- Bait (fruit, garbage)
- Old blanket or burlap sack
- Number to wildlife agency
Instructions
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Place the barrel or garbage can next to the picnic table. If using a garbage can, be sure that it's heavy enough so that the skunk can't easily tip it over from inside and escape. A small amount of water (about 1/3 of the can) at the bottom will help stabilize it.
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Put a plank of wood at least 18 inches long at the edge of the picnic table. It should extend about halfway (or a little less) over the edge.
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Place bait at the end of the wood plank. Fruit pieces, rotting food, or even dead insects make appetizing bait options for skunks. Scatter the bait on the table surface to make a trail leading to the end of the plank.
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Cover garbage can/barrel and trapped skunk with old blanket or burlap.
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Tips & Warnings
Don't bait the table and plank until after dark. Skunks are nocturnal feeders, so putting food out too early might mean trapping a different animal.
If you don't have a picnic table, you can place the trash can or barrel against a drop off or dig a hole to hold the container.
According to DoYourOwnPestControl.com, skunks are less likely to spray if they're in a dark, covered area. To reduce the chances of being sprayed, be sure to cover a container holding a trapped skunk before attempting to move or releasing it to another location.
If the trapped skunk appears overly aggressive or is salivating, it might have rabies. Don't release it or attempt to move it. Contact your local wildlife agency for further instructions.
