> [log in to unmask] >+++++ > >You wrote >> skunks are cleaning up my yards. I >>hate poisoning the little things I've heard of using chocolate exlax as a >>negitive conditioning. Anybody have any experience with this or any >>other non lethal deterent. > >I have used thin boards (.25" plywood, cedar shingles, etc.) with 1.5 or 2" >nails driven through them then laid around the entrance of the hives with >the sharp protruding nails upwards. It was effective enough to convince the >skunks to visit other hives for their snacks. Eventually when most >peripheral hives had the boards the skunks stopped bothering my apiary. I >do not think the skunks were even hurt for I never detected their alarm odor >as I have when they encountered an electric fence.. > >george fielder George: I have a friend living in town that traps skunks in a "Have a Heart" trap. Once caught throw a blanket over it and leave alone for a short while. You can then go to the trap and move it to another location for release. The skunk will not know what direction you are coming from and will not spray. My friend does not release the skunk alive so as for advise as to how you can release him successfully without getting sprayed is for you to figure out. I'm sure there is a way. George George & Lorraine Willy The Village Inn of East Burke Box 186 East Burke, Vermont 05832