Removing & Relocating Skunks
We discuss in our skunk trapping article the best way to trap a skunk, and in our article about tools and supplies for skunk removal the type of traps and exclusion materials you should purchase. In this article, we will discuss the relocation of skunks from your property once they have been trapped. Keep in mind that an exclusion is not the same as a trapping. Exclusion is designed to eliminate the need for trapping by disallowing the animals to enter the property. If you have already done an exclusion and there are still skunks on your property, with no way to escape the property, you’ll need to perform a trapping.
So you’ve got a skunk in a cage or trap of some sort, and you need to remove it immediately. The first thing you’ll want to do is consult the local ordinances or regulations for your city and county, as well as the state laws regarding lawful animal relocation. You can’t simply release wildlife anywhere in the United States--otherwise people would do so mischievously. Imagine if every time somebody had a problem with you, they popped a skunk over your fence and scared them. As such, skunks and other animals are required to be removed by licensed trappers and operators, and only relocated to approved wildlife sanctuaries or nature preserves. In some cities, you can trap them yourself, and call the fish and game department to empty your trap for you.
If you can legally relocate a skunk yourself, it’s a good idea to take it at least 5 miles away from where you trapped it. This distance will be far enough away from your home that they are not likely to come wandering back.