Skunk in a Live Trap: Humane Removal (US Guide)

Discovering a skunk in a live trap on your property requires a careful and humane approach, especially with the regulations set by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) concerning wildlife management. The immediate concern for many homeowners is avoiding the potent spray associated with skunks, a defense mechanism controlled by their muscular glands. Safely dealing with this situation often involves understanding the behavior of skunks, which are generally nocturnal animals, and utilizing specific techniques to minimize stress to the animal while ensuring personal safety. One method for handling a skunk in a live trap is to slowly cover the trap with a large blanket to give the skunk a sense of security, thus reducing the likelihood of it spraying.

Understanding and Respectfully Addressing Skunk Encounters

Skunk encounters are becoming increasingly common, especially in the expanding suburban landscape. As human development encroaches upon natural habitats, these adaptable creatures are finding their way into our yards, gardens, and even under our decks.

While a skunk’s presence might initially be met with apprehension, it’s essential to approach these situations with understanding and respect. Implementing humane and legal methods for managing skunk interactions is not just a matter of ethical consideration, but also vital for maintaining ecological balance and community safety.

The Rise of Suburban Skunks

Skunks, known for their distinctive black and white markings and, of course, their potent defensive spray, are opportunistic animals. They thrive in environments where food sources are readily available, and shelter is easily accessible. Suburban areas, with their combination of manicured lawns, gardens, and human-generated food waste, provide an ideal habitat.

Garbage cans left unsecured, pet food bowls left outdoors, and readily available insects all serve as attractants. Furthermore, spaces beneath decks, sheds, and porches offer secure and denning sites, further increasing the likelihood of skunk presence near residential properties.

Why Humane and Legal Methods Matter

When dealing with skunks, it is crucial to prioritize humane and legal methods. Lethal control measures are often unnecessary, ineffective in the long run, and can disrupt local ecosystems. Moreover, many areas have laws and regulations in place to protect wildlife, including skunks.

Choosing humane options, such as live trapping and relocation, allows us to manage skunk populations without causing undue harm or suffering. It demonstrates respect for these creatures and contributes to a more harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife.

A Glimpse into Humane Skunk Trapping

The process of humane skunk trapping involves several key steps:

• Careful Assessment: Determining if trapping is truly necessary.
• Thorough Preparation: Gathering the right equipment and understanding local regulations.
• Strategic Trap Placement: Choosing an effective location and camouflaging the trap.
• Consistent Monitoring: Checking the trap regularly and approaching it with caution.
• Safe Relocation: Releasing the skunk in a suitable habitat.

At each step, safety is paramount. Wearing protective gear, using gentle movements, and understanding skunk behavior are essential for minimizing the risk of being sprayed.

The following sections will delve into each of these steps in detail, providing a practical guide to humane and responsible skunk management.

Preparation is Key: Assessing the Situation and Gathering Your Supplies

[Understanding and Respectfully Addressing Skunk Encounters
Skunk encounters are becoming increasingly common, especially in the expanding suburban landscape. As human development encroaches upon natural habitats, these adaptable creatures are finding their way into our yards, gardens, and even under our decks.
While a skunk’s presence might initial…] Before taking any action, careful preparation is crucial. This involves thoroughly assessing whether trapping is truly necessary, familiarizing yourself with local regulations, and gathering the correct equipment. Taking these steps ensures a humane and legally compliant approach to resolving skunk-related issues.

Confirming the Need for Trapping: A Deliberate Approach

Before resorting to trapping, it’s essential to determine if it’s the most appropriate solution. Trapping should be a last resort, not the first reaction to a skunk sighting.

Begin by carefully assessing the situation. Is the skunk simply passing through, or is it causing damage or posing a direct threat?

Often, a skunk’s presence is temporary and doesn’t warrant intervention.

Exploring Non-Lethal Solutions First

Consider alternative, non-lethal solutions before setting a trap. Skunk deterrents can be highly effective in discouraging their presence.

Motion-activated sprinklers can startle skunks and encourage them to move elsewhere. Similarly, strategically placed fencing can create a physical barrier, preventing them from accessing vulnerable areas of your property.

Minimizing Attractants: A Proactive Stance

A critical step in preventing skunk issues is to minimize attractants. Secure garbage cans with tight-fitting lids to eliminate easy food sources.

Seal any potential entry points under decks, sheds, or porches to prevent skunks from establishing a den. By removing food and shelter, you make your property less appealing to skunks.

Legal Considerations and Regulations: Navigating the Rules

Wildlife management is often governed by local and state laws. Ignoring these regulations can lead to hefty fines or legal repercussions.

Understanding Local Wildlife Laws

Thoroughly research your local wildlife laws and regulations before attempting to trap a skunk. These laws often vary by region and may dictate specific methods or restrictions.

The Permit Question: When is it Required?

Determine whether a trapping permit is required in your area. Many jurisdictions mandate permits for trapping any wildlife, including skunks.

Contact your local animal control or wildlife agency to obtain the necessary permit and understand any associated requirements.

Relocation Restrictions: Knowing the Boundaries

Check for any restrictions or guidelines regarding skunk relocation. Some areas prohibit relocating skunks due to concerns about disease transmission or disrupting local ecosystems.

If relocation is permitted, understand the distance and habitat requirements to ensure the skunk’s survival.

Gathering Necessary Equipment: Preparing for Success

Having the right equipment is essential for a safe and effective trapping process. Using the wrong tools can lead to injury for both you and the skunk.

Selecting an Appropriate Live Trap

Choose a live trap that is specifically designed for skunks. Popular options include the Tomahawk Live Trap and Havahart Live Trap.

Ensure the trap is sturdy, well-ventilated, and of appropriate size for a skunk.

Baiting Strategies: Appealing to a Skunk’s Appetite

Select effective bait to lure the skunk into the trap. Peanut butter is a classic choice, as its strong aroma is highly appealing to skunks.

Marshmallows and cat food are also effective options. Experiment with different baits to see what works best in your area.

Calming the Skunk: The Importance of a Trap Covering

Prepare a trap covering, such as a blanket, tarp, or burlap sack. This covering serves a dual purpose. It calms the skunk by providing a sense of security and minimizing external stimuli. It also reduces the risk of the skunk spraying when approached.

Protective Gear: Prioritizing Your Safety

Acquire the necessary protective gear to minimize the risk of injury or exposure to skunk spray.

Rubber gloves are essential for handling the trap and bait. Eye protection, such as safety glasses, will protect your eyes from potential spray. Wear long sleeves and pants to further minimize skin exposure.

Pet Safety: Preventing Accidental Interference

Implement a leash restraint plan for your pets to prevent them from interfering with the trap. Curiosity can lead pets to investigate the trap, potentially resulting in injury to the pet or a sprayed skunk.

Setting the Stage: Trap Placement and Camouflage

With preparations complete and the necessary equipment in hand, the next critical step involves strategically setting the live trap. Successful capture hinges on careful trap placement, effective baiting, and skillful camouflage to entice the skunk while minimizing any suspicion. A well-executed setup not only increases the likelihood of trapping the skunk but also contributes to a more humane process by reducing the animal’s stress.

Choosing the Right Location: A Matter of Observation and Strategy

The location of the trap is paramount. It’s not simply about placing it anywhere; it’s about strategically positioning it where the skunk is most likely to encounter it.

Effective placement starts with careful observation. Identify areas exhibiting high skunk activity. Look for telltale signs such as:

• Disturbed soil
• Dig marks
• Fecal droppings

These indicators suggest frequent skunk presence.

Once you’ve identified these hotspots, consider the surrounding environment. Skunks often travel along fences, near sheds, or under decks.

Placing the trap in these areas increases the probability of intercepting their natural pathways.

The trap should always be placed on a level surface. This ensures stability and proper function of the triggering mechanism. Uneven ground can cause the trap to wobble or malfunction, potentially injuring the skunk or allowing it to escape.

Baiting the Trap Effectively: Temptation and Technique

Bait selection and placement are crucial for luring the skunk into the trap. The goal is to entice the animal with an irresistible treat while ensuring it fully enters the trap.

Effective bait options include peanut butter, marshmallows, or even cat food. These items are known to be attractive to skunks due to their strong scent and palatability.

The bait should be placed strategically inside the trap, typically near the back, to encourage the skunk to fully enter the enclosure.

Consider smearing a small amount of peanut butter on the trigger plate to further entice the skunk.

However, avoid over-baiting. Placing too much bait near the entrance can allow the skunk to reach the treat without fully committing to entering the trap.

This can lead to the skunk becoming wary of the trap, making future capture attempts more difficult.

Camouflaging the Trap: Blending In for Success

Camouflage is essential for minimizing the skunk’s suspicion and increasing the likelihood of a successful capture. A trap that stands out unnaturally in its surroundings will likely deter the skunk.

Using natural materials to blend the trap into its environment is key. Gather leaves, branches, and other foliage from the surrounding area.

Carefully arrange these materials around the trap, ensuring they cover the wire mesh and any shiny or reflective surfaces.

The goal is to make the trap appear as a natural part of the landscape.

Crucially, ensure that the trap’s triggering mechanism remains unobstructed. Camouflage should enhance concealment without interfering with the trap’s functionality.

Avoid placing leaves or branches directly on the trigger plate or near the door, as this can prevent the trap from closing properly.

Monitoring and Approach: Handling with Care

With preparations complete and the necessary equipment in hand, the next critical step involves strategically setting the live trap. Successful capture hinges on careful trap placement, effective baiting, and skillful camouflage to entice the skunk while minimizing any suspicion. A well-executed setup is only half the battle; consistent monitoring and a careful approach are crucial for the well-being of the animal and your safety. This section outlines how to check the trap regularly, approach it safely once a skunk is captured, and handle the transport with minimal stress to both you and the animal. The ultimate goal is to reduce the skunk’s time in captivity and dramatically reduce the risk of being sprayed.

The Importance of Regular Checks

Once the trap is set, it is your responsibility to check it frequently, ideally twice a day, once in the morning and again in the evening. This consistent monitoring serves several crucial purposes. First and foremost, it minimizes the amount of time the skunk spends confined in the trap, reducing its stress and anxiety.

Secondly, prompt attention ensures that the skunk has access to fresh air and, if necessary, can be provided with water in warmer weather. Finally, regular checks allow you to quickly address any unforeseen issues, such as the trap being disturbed by other animals or becoming non-functional due to environmental factors.

Prompt attention is paramount. The longer the skunk remains trapped, the higher the risk of it becoming agitated and potentially spraying as a defense mechanism.

Approaching the Trap with Caution

Approaching a live trap containing a skunk requires a calm and deliberate approach. Sudden movements or loud noises can startle the animal and increase the likelihood of it spraying. The key is to minimize any perceived threat.

First, observe the trap from a distance to assess the skunk’s behavior. Is it pacing frantically, or is it relatively calm? This observation will help you gauge its stress level and determine the best course of action.

Next, move slowly and deliberately toward the trap, avoiding any sudden or jerky movements. Talk in a soft, reassuring voice, if you feel comfortable, as this can help to calm the skunk.

Covering the Trap

Before getting too close, the most effective way to minimize the risk of spraying is to cover the trap with a blanket, tarp, or burlap sack. This action will reduce the skunk’s visibility, making it feel more secure and less threatened.

Drape the covering over the trap gently and evenly, ensuring that it is completely enclosed. This creates a darkened environment that will significantly calm the skunk.

Transporting with Care

Once the trap is covered, you can proceed with transporting the skunk to the designated release site. The key is to lift the trap carefully and steadily, avoiding any sudden movements or jolts that could startle the animal.

Grip the trap securely by the handle, ensuring that you have a firm hold. Lift the trap slowly and deliberately, keeping it as level as possible to minimize any stress to the skunk.

During transport, continue to speak in a soft, reassuring voice, if you wish, and avoid any sudden stops or sharp turns. The goal is to provide a smooth and uneventful ride to the release site.

Special Considerations: Skunk Kits

If, upon checking the trap, you discover that you have captured a mother skunk and her kits (young skunks), the situation requires a different approach. Separating a mother skunk from her young can have devastating consequences for the kits’ survival.

If possible, attempt to trap the entire family together. Place a second trap nearby, baited similarly to the first, in hopes of capturing the remaining kits. Monitor both traps closely.

The best course of action is often to contact a local wildlife rehabilitator. They have the expertise and resources to safely handle skunk families and ensure the well-being of both the mother and her young. They may advise you to release the entire family on-site or take them into their care for proper rehabilitation and eventual release.

Release and Aftercare: Ensuring a Smooth Transition

With preparations complete and the necessary equipment in hand, the next critical step involves strategically setting the live trap. Successful capture hinges on careful trap placement, effective baiting, and skillful camouflage to entice the skunk while minimizing any suspicion. A well-executed setup is only half the battle; the humane release and subsequent aftercare are equally crucial for both the animal’s welfare and preventing future conflicts.

This section details the steps involved in releasing the trapped skunk into a suitable habitat and taking post-release actions to prevent future encounters. The focus is on ensuring the skunk’s well-being and minimizing the likelihood of its return.

Choosing a Suitable Release Site: A New Beginning

The selection of a release site is paramount to the skunk’s survival and successful reintegration into the wild. It’s not enough to simply find a patch of woods; careful consideration must be given to the environment and its suitability for the animal.

Habitat Considerations

Ideally, the release site should be within the skunk’s natural range to avoid disrupting local ecosystems or placing the animal in unfamiliar territory. This increases its chances of finding familiar food sources and potential mates.

The area should also provide adequate cover, such as dense underbrush, fallen logs, or rock piles, to offer immediate protection from predators and the elements. Access to a reliable water source is also crucial.

Distance from Human Habitation

The release site must be sufficiently far away from residential areas to prevent the skunk from returning to its previous haunts and potentially causing further issues. A general rule of thumb is to release the skunk at least five miles from where it was trapped.

However, local regulations may vary, so it’s essential to check with your local wildlife authorities for specific guidelines.

The chosen location should offer the skunk ample opportunity to forage and establish a new den without venturing near human settlements.

Releasing the Skunk Properly: A Moment of Freedom

The actual release process should be handled with care and respect to minimize stress on the skunk and ensure its safe departure.

Positioning for a Safe Exit

Before opening the trap, carefully position it so that the door is facing away from yourself, any other people, and any pets. This prevents the skunk from feeling cornered and instinctively spraying as it exits.

Ensure there are no immediate obstacles in front of the trap that could hinder the skunk’s escape.

Gradual Release

Slowly and gently open the trap door, allowing the skunk to exit at its own pace. Avoid startling the animal or forcing it out, as this could cause unnecessary stress and increase the likelihood of spraying.

Step back and observe from a safe distance as the skunk cautiously emerges and disappears into its new surroundings.

Post-Release Actions: Preventing Future Encounters

Releasing the skunk is not the end of the story. Implementing effective post-release actions is essential to prevent future conflicts and ensure that your property remains skunk-free.

Trap Sanitation

Thoroughly clean and disinfect the live trap immediately after the release. This will remove any lingering scent markers that could attract other skunks or animals to the area.

Use a mild bleach solution or a specialized animal-safe disinfectant to scrub the trap thoroughly. Rinse it well and allow it to air dry completely before storing it.

Continued Preventative Measures

The most effective way to prevent future skunk problems is to continue implementing preventative measures around your property. This includes:

• Securing all garbage cans with tight-fitting lids to prevent skunks from accessing food scraps.
• Sealing any potential entry points under decks, sheds, or foundations to deny them shelter.
• Removing potential food sources, such as pet food left outdoors or fallen fruit from trees.
• Using skunk deterrents, such as motion-activated sprinklers or commercially available scent repellents.

By consistently implementing these measures, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of future skunk encounters and promote a harmonious coexistence with local wildlife.

Troubleshooting: Addressing Potential Issues

Even with meticulous planning, unexpected situations can arise during or after skunk trapping. Prompt and informed responses are crucial to ensure the well-being of both humans and animals. This section addresses common problems like skunk spray incidents and encounters with injured or orphaned skunks, providing guidance for effective and ethical handling.

Skunk Spray Incidents

The most common concern when dealing with skunks is the potential for being sprayed. Skunk spray is an oily liquid composed of sulfur-containing compounds that cause a strong, unpleasant odor.

Immediate First Aid

If sprayed, act quickly. For skin contact, immediately wash the affected area with soap and water. Avoid using hot water, as it can set the odor. Flush eyes with copious amounts of water for at least 15 minutes. Seek medical attention if irritation persists.

For clothing, wash separately from other items using a detergent with baking soda or vinegar. Sunlight can also help break down the odor, so air-drying outdoors is recommended. If the smell remains after washing, consider discarding the item.

Neutralizing the Odor

Tomato juice has long been a popular home remedy, although its effectiveness varies. The acidity in tomato juice can help neutralize some of the odor-causing compounds.

Commercial skunk odor removal products are often more effective. These products contain enzymes or other ingredients specifically designed to break down the chemicals in skunk spray. Follow the product instructions carefully for best results.

Injured or Orphaned Skunks

Encountering an injured or orphaned skunk requires careful consideration. It’s vital to resist the urge to handle the animal directly, as this could expose you to disease or cause further harm.

Contacting Wildlife Rehabilitators

The best course of action is to contact a local wildlife rehabilitator. These professionals are trained to assess and treat injured or orphaned animals, providing them with the necessary care and rehabilitation.

Wildlife rehabilitators can also offer guidance on whether the skunk truly needs assistance. Sometimes, young skunks may appear orphaned but are actually under the care of their mother.

Understanding Wildlife Rehabilitation

Wildlife rehabilitation plays a crucial role in conserving local ecosystems. Rehabilitators provide medical care, nutrition, and shelter to injured or orphaned animals, with the goal of returning them to the wild. This service is often provided by non-profit organizations and relies on donations and volunteer support.

When to Seek Professional Help

While many skunk-related issues can be resolved independently, certain situations warrant professional intervention.

Contacting Authorities and Experts

Animal control officers can assist with skunks exhibiting unusual behavior, such as daytime activity or aggression, which could indicate rabies. Wildlife rehabilitators are invaluable for handling injured or orphaned skunks. Humane societies may also offer assistance with skunk removal or relocation.

Considering Pest Control Companies

If skunk problems persist despite preventative measures and trapping efforts, consider consulting a pest control company. Professionals have the experience and equipment to handle complex skunk infestations effectively and humanely. They can also identify and address the underlying factors attracting skunks to your property. Remember to choose a company that prioritizes humane removal methods.

Ethical Considerations and Resources: Promoting Respectful Coexistence

Even with meticulous planning, unexpected situations can arise during or after skunk trapping. Prompt and informed responses are crucial to ensure the well-being of both humans and animals. This section emphasizes the ethical responsibility to treat skunks humanely throughout the trapping process and provides resources for further information and assistance in promoting a respectful coexistence with these creatures.

The Imperative of Humane Treatment

At the heart of any wildlife management strategy lies the ethical obligation to minimize harm and suffering. When dealing with skunks, this principle dictates that we must prioritize methods that are not only effective but also respectful of the animal’s inherent worth.

Humane treatment goes beyond simply avoiding outright cruelty; it entails a conscious effort to reduce stress, fear, and physical discomfort throughout the entire trapping and relocation process.

This starts with selecting the right equipment, such as appropriately sized live traps that prevent injury. It continues with careful handling to avoid startling the skunk and culminates in a release process that maximizes its chances of successful adaptation to a new environment.

Minimizing stress is not just an ethical imperative; it’s also crucial for the skunk’s well-being. A stressed animal is more likely to injure itself, become ill, or fail to thrive after relocation.

By prioritizing humane treatment, we acknowledge the intrinsic value of each living creature and demonstrate our commitment to responsible stewardship of the natural world.

Practical Steps Toward Humane Handling

Adopting a humane approach means integrating best practices at every stage of the process:

• Careful Trap Selection: Use traps designed for humane capture, ensuring they are the appropriate size for skunks and free from sharp edges or potential hazards.

• Gentle Approach and Handling: When approaching a trapped skunk, move slowly and deliberately, avoiding sudden movements or loud noises that could cause distress. Cover the trap with a blanket to reduce visual stimuli.

• Prompt Release: Minimize the time the skunk spends in captivity. The sooner it’s released, the less stress it will endure.

• Habitat Consideration: When selecting a release site, choose an area that provides adequate food, water, and shelter and is far from busy roads or other potential dangers.

• Continuous Learning: Stay informed about the latest best practices in wildlife management and adapt your approach as needed.

Navigating the Landscape of Resources

Effectively managing human-wildlife conflicts often requires expertise and support. Fortunately, a wealth of resources is available to guide individuals and communities in their efforts:

Key Organizations

• Humane Societies: Local humane societies are valuable resources for information on humane animal handling, wildlife conflict resolution, and responsible pet ownership. They may also offer assistance with animal relocation or connect you with licensed wildlife rehabilitators.

• USDA Wildlife Services: The United States Department of Agriculture’s Wildlife Services program provides technical assistance and guidance on managing wildlife damage. Their website offers a wealth of information on skunk behavior, prevention strategies, and legal regulations.

• State Fish and Wildlife Agencies: These state-level agencies are responsible for managing wildlife populations within their jurisdictions. They can provide information on trapping regulations, licensing requirements, and best practices for coexisting with wildlife.

Additional Avenues for Assistance

• Wildlife Rehabilitators: Licensed wildlife rehabilitators are trained to care for injured or orphaned animals. If you encounter a skunk in need of medical attention, contact a local rehabilitator for assistance.

• Pest Control Professionals: While it’s important to prioritize humane methods, pest control professionals can offer assistance with complex or persistent skunk problems. Ensure that any professional you hire uses humane trapping and relocation techniques.

By leveraging these resources, individuals can make informed decisions and take effective action to promote respectful coexistence with skunks and other wildlife.

Disease Prevention: Minimizing Risk to Humans and Skunks

Even with meticulous planning, unexpected situations can arise during or after skunk trapping. Prompt and informed responses are crucial to ensure the well-being of both humans and animals. This section highlights vital steps to minimize the risks of disease transmission, focusing primarily on rabies and distemper, which can affect both skunks and humans.

Understanding the Risks: Rabies and Distemper

Skunks, while generally harmless, are known carriers of rabies, a deadly viral disease affecting the central nervous system. Rabies is transmissible through saliva, usually via bites or scratches. Although less commonly discussed, distemper is another concern, especially for skunks.

Distemper, while not transmissible to humans, can severely weaken skunks, making them more susceptible to other illnesses and altering their behavior. A sick animal might be more likely to act erratically, increasing the risk of human contact.

Essential Precautions: Protecting Yourself

Direct contact with a skunk, even if it appears healthy, should always be avoided. The single most important step in preventing disease transmission is to minimize or eliminate direct physical interaction. Use the following guidelines to safeguard your health:

• Never Handle a Skunk Directly: Regardless of the circumstances, avoid touching a skunk with bare hands. If you must manipulate the trap, use tools and maintain a safe distance.
• Wear Protective Gloves: Always wear heavy-duty rubber or disposable gloves when handling the trap, bait, or any item that may have come into contact with a skunk. Discard disposable gloves immediately after use, and thoroughly disinfect reusable gloves.
• Wash Your Hands Meticulously: After any interaction involving the trap or potentially contaminated items, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Pay close attention to cleaning under fingernails and between fingers.
• Avoid Exposure to Bodily Fluids: Take extra precaution to avoid any exposure to animal wastes. Wearing additional protective gear like safety glasses and a disposable Tyvek suit are also important.

What to Do If Bitten or Scratched

If you are bitten or scratched by a skunk, immediate medical attention is crucial. Do not delay. Wash the wound thoroughly with soap and water for several minutes.

Following this, contact your doctor or local health department immediately for guidance on post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for rabies. PEP is a series of vaccinations that can prevent the rabies virus from establishing an infection. The sooner PEP is administered, the more effective it is.

Protecting Your Pets

Vaccinate your pets (dogs, cats, and ferrets) against rabies and distemper. Vaccination is the most effective way to protect your pets from these diseases. Keep your pets under control and prevent them from interacting with wildlife. If your pet is bitten or scratched by a skunk, consult your veterinarian immediately, even if the animal is vaccinated. A booster shot may be necessary.

Disinfection Procedures

Thoroughly disinfect the live trap after each use, even if you don’t suspect any contact with bodily fluids. Use a diluted bleach solution (1 part bleach to 9 parts water) or a commercial disinfectant. Wear gloves and eye protection during cleaning.

When to Seek Professional Advice

If you observe a skunk exhibiting unusual behavior – such as daytime activity, unprovoked aggression, paralysis, or disorientation – contact your local animal control or wildlife authorities immediately. Do not approach the animal yourself. These signs could indicate rabies or another serious illness.

So, there you have it! Dealing with a skunk in a live trap isn’t exactly a picnic, but with a little patience and the right approach, you can safely and humanely relocate the little guy. Remember to stay calm, take your time, and respect the skunk’s space – after all, he’s probably just as surprised as you are! Good luck, and hopefully, you won’t have to deal with a skunk in a live trap again anytime soon.