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Trapping skunks is commonly believed to be an effective method to remove them from your property. However, there are several reasons why trapping is not an effective method of removal or deterrence and is usually only a temporary solution. Humane Wildlife Control uses hands-on removal and baby boxes to exclude skunks and encourage them to relocate. Here’s why:
In Ontario, trapping and relocation is illegal
According to Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources regulations, if you trap a skunk, it must be released close to where it was trapped. If relocated less than a kilometre away, it is very likely that the animal will return to its familiar territory (i.e. your house). If relocated more than a kilometre away, in contravention of Ontario regulations, statistics show that the death rates are quite high because the animal has a hard time adapting to an unfamiliar environment. Improper use of a trap that results in animal suffering could lead to animal cruelty charges through the Ontario SPCA Act.
Live trapping causes undue stress
Trapping skunks in a live trap (i.e. a cage trap) causes great stress on the animal, and they may seriously injure themselves trying to escape. Depending on the location of the trap, the skunk may be exposed to the elements (sun or cold) for a long period of time and may die of exposure, starvation or dehydration. Body gripping traps are illegal unless you have a provincially-issued trapping licence.
Separating a mother from her babies will cause them to die
If a mother skunk is trapped or relocated and separated from her babies, it is likely that the babies will die from starvation or dehydration. Or they will be forced to leave the den site prematurely and become injured or eaten by predators. Humane Wildlife Control uses specially-designed "baby boxes" that we pioneered to allow the mother to freely pick up her young and relocate them to an alternate den site.
Trapping alone does not solve the problem
Trapping a single skunk will only mean that you have opened the territory for other skunks to enter. Studies indicate that there are 15 to 25 skunks within a square kilometre in urban areas. These animals have adapted well to urban environments and will seek shelter and food wherever possible. Humane Wildlife Control uses proven removal techniques and guaranteed wildlife proofing to ensure that the skunks are removed safely and your house or other building is sealed completely to prevent re-entry.
Do you (or your pets) want to get sprayed?
Trapping a skunk leaves you with one major problem – how to transport and release the animal without getting sprayed. A direct hit from skunk spray at close proximity can cause nausea and the smell will linger on clothes, skin and fur for weeks. Humane Wildlife Control has trained technicians who are familiar with skunks and the best techniques to remove them without getting sprayed. And if they do accidentally get sprayed, that’s what you pay them for!
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