Hubby and I have taken care of dozens of skunks....(they will eat the eggs from under your hens!)
First- even if you don't plan on trapping a skunk- prep the trap in case you do!----We often use old cardboard (on three sides, with a slit for the handle) or we cut open an old feed bag and do the same. This helps you be able to carry a coon too---they'll sometimes try to claw at you through the cage while you're carrying them!
Second-- If you can- wait until it's nice and bright outside---they get really sleepy...but so long as the trap is covered, I've been able to move the trap without getting sprayed (remember the slit for the handle before hand though!). If you're concerned about it--by waiting until early afternoon when it's a little warmer and bright out---they're _really_ sleepy then!
Third-- Bring the trap to the far end of your yard- preferable down wind from the house to shoot it (.22 works fine). Remember- they're actually as small as a medium-small cat--they're just fluffy! When they're shot, they will often "leak out" their spray---so the smell stays there and doesn't go into the air!
Dispose of the skunk appropriately then spray down trap with peroxide mixture and a good rinse with the hose sprayer.
Voila!
PLEASE DO NOT JUST LET IT GO SOMEPLACE ELSE----
1. you transfer the problem to someone else
2. it will likely starve to death- as it will not know its environment
3. it is illegal in some states, including CA----it can spread rabies!!!
THose are just my top three reason.
Sandra