On 8/9/2011 2:12 PM, Jim Elbrecht wrote:
On Tue, 09 Aug 2011 07:45:04 -0400, Frank
wrote:

-snip-
I second the trap too. I catch and release squirrels in the park but
have only used trap when I have groundhog or raccoon problems and catch
squirrels incidentally. I wish I had bought the biggest Hav-a-hart as
mine is groundhog size but not big enough for mature raccoons.

Harbor freight sells a set of 3 for about $30 every spring. I
reinforced the big one with a piece of angle iron across the
threshold- but otherwise they have been pretty reliable.

You also need to check local laws. Around here you can catch and kill
but are not supposed to release. Some places you are not allowed to trap.

Good points- both.

Something else I learned was that it is a good idea to close the trap at
night as you might have to deal with a trapped skunk. I have a couple
of times and fortunately was able to open trap and release without
getting sprayed.

I've trapped on and off for 40 years. Last year was the first time I
caught a skunk. Glad it was in the live trap. I walked out
with a blanket kept between my and the skunk- covered the trap-
propped the door open- and stood back.

Mr. skunk stayed in so I went inside-- got my camera- set it up for
motion detection and a movie, and went back inside.

A couple hours later, the skunk walked slowly out of the trap- on to
the next meal. They are the most docile animal I've ever seen. I
caught his brother the next night& repeated the story.

Another 100 nights or so of the trap being out there& I haven't
caught another. They appear to be fast learners.

Jim

My last skunk had 3 kids with her. With mom in the trap the kids were
running all around it and jumping on it. Fortunately the trap was under
my 10 ft. deck and I was able to reach down with a pole pruner and open
the trap. She got out but they were in no hurry to leave. I regret not
filming or videotaping.

They say skunks won't spray when confined and I've heard of folks
covering the trap and transporting the animal to release but I would
never take that chance.

In article ,
says...


They say skunks won't spray when confined and I've heard of folks
covering the trap and transporting the animal to release but I would
never take that chance.

I transport and release in a safe place away from traffic.

Skunks will spray when confined but IME they've been younger skunks.