You've approached the trap to release the captured animal. You probably didn't intend to catch a skunk, but that's what you have in your trap. So, what should you do in this situation?
Part 1
Step 1. Wait for the skunk to calm down or fall asleep.
Step 2. Grab a sheet or tarp to protect your face from potential skunk spray and cover the trap.
Step 3. Wrap yourself in garbage bags for added protection. Secure them so they don't slip off during your movements.
The bags should fit snugly around your body. Remember to cut holes for your eyes, nose, and mouth, securing them to your face or glasses to maintain visibility in a critical moment.
Step 4. Put on disposable rubber gloves.
Having an extra pair of gloves can be helpful in case the first one tears while handling the trap.
Step 5. Protect your face or at least wear goggles.
Remember, skunk spray can temporarily blind you for up to 15 minutes.
Step 6. Take a stick to hold the trap door open.
This will help prevent the skunk from closing the door behind it.
Step 7. Hold the tarp with outstretched arms and approach the trap from downwind.
Step 8. Cover the trap on all sides with the tarp or sheet.
Make sure you know how to open the trap before covering it.
Step 9. If possible, move the trap to a more suitable location for releasing the skunk.
You can carry the trap by its handles while remaining protected by the tarp.
Step 10. Orient the trap's exit away from the wind to avoid spray dispersal.
Step 11. Carefully remove the tarp from the door and open it using the stick, then step back to a safe distance.
Step 12. Be patient; the skunk may take some time to leave the trap.
Step 13. GOOD LUCK to you and the skunk on this new beginning.
