Approaching and Releasing a Skunk Safely from a Live Trap

Skunks, typically active at night, are generally non-aggressive unless provoked. They play a beneficial role for farmers and gardeners by preying on garden pests. However, if you find skunks unwanted on your property, you might resort to using a live trap. It's crucial to handle the approach and release of a skunk from the trap with care to avoid harm to the animal or being sprayed by its defensive mechanism.

Equip yourself with sturdy leather or canvas gloves. Always wear protective gloves made of sturdy leather or canvas when handling animal traps. These gloves serve to shield your hands from potential scratches and reduce the risk of infection from exposure to animal waste.

• Opt for gardening or work gloves as long as they're thick and made of leather or canvas. Ensure there are no holes or tears in the gloves to prevent skin exposure.

Prepare a canvas tarp or a large towel. Use it to cover the live trap, temporarily blinding the skunk for an easier release. Ensure the material is durable like canvas, denim, or thick towel to prevent any cuts or chew marks from the skunk.

Don old attire. Opt for old long sleeve shirts and pants. While following proper removal steps should prevent spraying, there's always a chance. Wear clothes you wouldn't mind disposing of if sprayed.

Inspect the trap's door. Determine if it has a gravity or spring-loaded door. For gravity doors, flip the trap over to open. For spring-loaded ones, approach the door carefully to open it.

Advance cautiously. Stay low and speak softly to avoid alarming the skunk. Move slowly and steadily towards the trap, holding the tarp or towel. Avoid sudden movements and heed warnings like thumping from the skunk.

Cover the trap with the towel or tarp. Once near the trap, carefully place the covering over it, ensuring full coverage except for the door. This blinds the skunk temporarily, reducing the likelihood of it spraying unseen objects.

Find a suitable release spot. Choose an area at your property's edge, near trees or a forest. Keep all outdoor openings closed to prevent the skunk from re-entering. Placing the trap far from your property facilitates releasing it into the wild.

Turn over a gravity door trap. Use a long pole to gently flip it, allowing the door to open. Ensure the trap is fully covered before approaching. Alternatively, flip it manually from the side while covered.

Unlock a spring-loaded door trap. Approach and manually release the latch or button. Ensure the opposite end is covered for easy access. Practice beforehand to minimize the risk of being sprayed.

Leave the vicinity promptly after opening the door. Back away quietly while facing the trap, potentially using another covering for protection. Avoid sudden movements to prevent startling the skunk, allowing it time to exit on its own.

Inspect the trap the next day. Skunks may take time to leave, especially if disturbed. Check the trap in the morning as they're nocturnal creatures and may exit at night. To hasten the process, lightly wet the skunk with a garden hose, ensuring nearby enclosures are sealed.

Decontaminate if sprayed. Cleanse clothes and body thoroughly with a mixture of hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and liquid dish soap to eliminate the scent. Rinse eyes with water if affected.