DIY Skunk Trapping
by pest expert Matthew S. Hess with contributions from Michael Sizemore
As a homeowner, it might be tempting to try trapping various nuisance wildlife, but most people tend to steer clear when it comes to DIY skunk trapping. While skunks might not be as menacing as other pests, their unique defense mechanism leaves nearly everyone quaking in their boots.
But what keeps most people from DIY skunk trapping is the possibility of being sprayed. Perhaps no other animal has instilled such fear in people as the skunk. Sure, we all know rattlesnakes are venomous, a bear can tear you apart, and an alligator could eat you, and yet there are pictures and videos all over social media of people wrestling, handling, petting, or otherwise taunting all three. I’m betting you won’t see that with a skunk!
Trapping Skunks The Safe Way
The general public often overlooks the fact that among all the pesky critters we apprehend, skunks are perhaps the most docile. While they do possess the potential to turn your world upside down for a while, a bit of know-how and practice can work wonders in averting such a situation. It’s a skunky business, but someone’s got to handle it!
Selecting the correct trap
When planning to trap a skunk, the type of trap you choose can make a big difference between a successful, clean trapping experience and a messy situation you’ll regret. Since skunks can only spray when their tail is lifted in the air, it’s important to select a trap that is small enough to prevent this. A trap with enclosed sides, rear, top, and bottom is best. There are traps designed specifically for trapping skunks, and we recommend using those.
Selecting the correct bait
After you acquire the trap, the next step is to set the bait. Choosing the right bait involves understanding a skunk’s diet. Pay attention to their surroundings and what they seem to be eating for helpful clues. If all else fails, consider buying a reliable commercial skunk bait.
Selecting the correct placement
So, you have your trap and some bait but where should you set up? This is a question only the person setting the trap can truly answer. Pay attention to where the skunk is traveling and what it is doing and place the trap along that pathway for best results.
Now What?
Now you wait… and once you have captured the smelly culprit, you must deal with proper disposal or release. Prior to setting your trap, it is crucial to consider the legal implications of capturing and handling nuisance wildlife. Numerous states have enacted legislation that prohibits the release of certain nuisance wildlife species. Violating these laws can lead to significant fines and potential incarceration. Therefore, it is advisable to seek counsel from local authorities before commencing trapping activities to ensure compliance with state regulations. It is important to note that in some cases, euthanizing the captured animal may be necessary. These factors should be carefully evaluated before initiating the trapping process.
What Will It Cost?
DIY skunk trapping isn’t cheap. By the time you check your state laws and regulations, purchase a couple skunk traps, some lure, and some method of euthanasia (if necessary), you could end up spending hours on the phone and web getting everything in order and all equipment purchased. Grand total supplies will cost upward of $300-$500 or more, depending on where you live.
What About Hiring Professional Skunk Control?
Four Seasons Pest Solutions offers professional trapping at affordable rates and we eliminate all the risk you would be taking to capture your own. One spray from a skunk could cost you hundreds of dollars in clothing replacement, odor removal, doctor visits, and more; nevermind the embarrassment!
