Dealing with skunks in your Southern Ontario backyard can be a real challenge. They’re persistent, and let’s face it, that spray is something you want to avoid at all costs. Today, our experienced wildlife specialist shares their Effective Skunk Trapping Tips! We’re diving deep into humane methods that prioritize both the skunk’s well-being and your safety.
Before we jump into trapping, it’s crucial to understand skunk behaviour, especially within our unique Southern Ontario ecosystem. Skunks are nocturnal creatures, meaning they’re most active at night. They thrive in areas with ample food sources, such as grubs, insects, and fallen fruit, which are abundant in our region during warmer months. They also seek shelter in places like under decks, sheds, and even within woodpiles. This knowledge helps us strategically plan our trapping approach.
Strategic Trap Placement: The Key to Success
Our wildlife specialist emphasizes that strategically placing the trap is paramount. It’s not just about throwing a trap anywhere and hoping for the best. Skunks are creatures of habit, and they follow established paths. We identify these paths by looking for signs like droppings, diggings, and tracks. Common areas include along fences, near compost piles, and under structures.
The specialist tells us that the trap must be placed directly within these travel routes. It’s vital that the trap is positioned on a flat, stable surface to prevent it from tipping.
The Importance of a Trap Cover for Safety and Security
A crucial aspect of humane skunk trapping is the use of a trap cover. This simple addition significantly enhances the safety of both the skunk and the individuals handling the trap. Our wildlife specialist stresses that a cover minimizes the skunk’s stress by reducing its visibility and providing a sense of security. It also acts as a barrier, preventing the skunk from spraying when it feels threatened.
Furthermore, the cover protects you from potential scratches or bites when moving the trap. It’s important to use a sturdy cover that allows for adequate ventilation. A dark-coloured tarp or blanket works well.
Choosing the right bait is essential for attracting skunks into the trap. Our specialist reveals that using the correct bait is a game-changer. Skunks are omnivores, but they have a particular fondness for certain foods.
Sardines and grape jelly are highly effective baits. The strong, pungent smell of sardines is irresistible to skunks, while the sweet aroma of grape jelly provides an additional layer of attraction. We recommend placing the bait at the back of the trap to ensure the skunk fully enters before the door closes. It is also important to use a small amount of bait, so the skunk is not able to take the bait without fully entering the trap.
Skunks are naturally cautious animals. They’re not going to rush into a new object in their environment. This is why our wildlife specialist advises patience. It’s important that the trap is not moved from where the wildlife specialist places it. Skunks need time to get used to the presence of the trap. They take a bit more time to be comfortable with their surroundings.
We observe that it can take several nights before a skunk enters the trap. During this time, we ensure the bait remains fresh and the trap is checked regularly. Regular monitoring is key to ensuring the skunk’s well-being and preventing it from being trapped for an extended period.
Once a skunk is trapped, humane handling and relocation are paramount. Our specialist emphasizes the importance of contacting a professional wildlife removal service. They have the expertise and resources to safely relocate the skunk to a suitable habitat, far from residential areas.
It’s crucial to avoid handling the trap yourself unless you have the necessary training and equipment. Skunks can carry diseases, and their spray is a potent irritant. Professional wildlife handlers are equipped to handle these risks safely.
Trapping is a temporary solution. To prevent future skunk encounters, we need to address the underlying causes that attract them to your property. Our wildlife specialist recommends a few key strategies:
Eliminate Food Sources: Secure garbage cans, clean up fallen fruit, and avoid feeding pets outdoors.
Seal Potential Shelter: Block access to areas under decks, sheds, and foundations.
Maintain a Clean Yard: Remove debris and woodpiles that provide shelter.
Install Fencing: Consider installing a fence around your property to deter skunks.
Learn about our humane skunk removal services:https://pestprotectionplus.com/wildlife-removal/skunk-removal-services/
Here is a helpful video:https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Fo2H7PRTVK8
