Skunk in the barn!

[NewToFarming]

So, I was weatherproofing my converted stall to coop in the barn last night and I saw a huge skunk on the opposite end of the barn. Thank goodness he was scared of me or I wouldn't be smelling to good today!

Anyhow, how concerned should I be about this guy with the chickens? I do believe I have them pretty secure that he can't get in at them and so far all he has gotten into was the cat food & water bowl.
I knew something was getting after the cat food but wasn't sure what it was but now I know it was this skunk.

 

[kelliepulido]

I had skunk trouble this summer and lost about 20 chicks plus he sprayed in the chicken coop itself and I had to clean it out with the home made skunk removal recipe and hose it out thank goodness it was my small barn

 

[jhm47]

Skunks are notorious carriers of rabies. They kill chickens, eat eggs, and they stink. If I were you, I'd get rid of it ASAP.

 

[NewToFarming]

Ok, thanks for the advice on the skunk. At least I know what to use as bait!

Cat Food!!

 

[theFox]

Quote:
They also like cheap cuts of beef, so if you have any fat trimmings with a bit of meat attached they will say yum and you'll have a skunk in the trap.

 

[sharol]

I understand that there are special traps for skunks that will prevent them from spraying you. You might see what you can find.

 

[NewToFarming]

Quote:
Thanks! That would be great!!! I was trying to figure out how to get him without being sprayed!!! I will see what I can find.

 

[theFox]

Quote:
Thanks! That would be great!!! I was trying to figure out how to get him without being sprayed!!! I will see what I can find.

Havahart traps, the skunk has difficulty raising its tail, just make sure you get the right sized trap. I caught one in my trap almost two weeks ago, I didn't get juiced although the skunk did lose a bit on the trap.