Live removal of wildlife is often preferred because it is not only humane, but it is also safer for your family and pets. However, keep in mind that live removal methods are a bit more expensive than extermination, as one would have to find a far place to set the skunk free, rather than just disposing of them. Make sure to plan accordingly and be as patient as possible. Here are a few tips and tricks to remove a skunk from your property in a humane way.
Remove Everything That Attracts Them
Obviously, before you start trying to get rid of skunks, you have to make sure that you don’t make the same mistake again. Avoid having a skunk visit your home by removing the things that could attract them back into your humble abode. The first thing you need to do is to seal your garbage bins and to have an extra plastic bag inside so that the smell won’t be as strong and attract skunks. Make sure that you also don’t leave any pet food outside your house, because these also attract them. Lastly, if your home has a bird feeder, be sure to have them properly secured, and that they are cleaned up after seeds have been spilled. By following these simple tips, you can prevent skunks from being attracted back into your home.
Live Trapping
A live trap, rather than a snap trap, is a more humane solution to your skunk problem. It works as a small trap with a weighted steel plate with bait, which would close your trap once the skunk is inside, allowing you to transport them to a location far from your property. Traps are very effective, especially if you’re just dealing with one or two skunks. Since skunks are naturally lone animals, traps work nicely. Make sure that your trap is well fitted for a skunk, as a well-fitted trap can prevent a skunk from lifting its tail and spraying you or its surroundings.
Note: Some state laws declare that trapping skunks yourself is illegal, and some also prohibit skunk transporting as it harms the area’s wildlife, so make sure to check with your local departments before buying a trap for a skunk problem.
A Few Reminders
While DIY methods can work well, it is best to call a professional company to handle wildlife removal for you, especially if it is a skunk. Professionals are well trained and equipped with knowledge that can prevent any possibilities of a skunk spraying on your property. Although sometimes, this method can be very pricey, it is well worth it, considering the fact that you dodged a very nasty and foul-smelling bullet that will linger in the air for days. A wildlife company will also assess damages and recommend repairs for them, so you are really getting more than just animal removal. Furthermore, relocating skunks can be very tricky, especially if you don’t know a lot about the skunk species. Relocating them to a strange area will cause the skunk to struggle to survive, and this will most likely mess with the local ecosystem, especially if they are not native to that area.
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