>      [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