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Not 100%, but the best shooting method I've found is with a .22 low velocity solid bullet (SV target will work, CB or Subsonic better) through the lungs/heart. Any impact of the central nervous system is a guaranteed spray. I've dispatched hundreds on the trapline and this method is probably around 85% effective. They must be in a low state of readiness before the shot (not tail up) and you must leave them be to bleed out and die.
I've also noted they rarely spray when caught in a #220 connibear which kills by constriction low on the neck on most skunks. In #160s they spray more frequently as the trap hits the back of the head/high neck. On the rare occasion I've caught one in a #110 or #120, there is also seldom any spray, as the trap doesn't have the power to impact the spinal column.
The most effective method I've used on some nuisance animals is to tarp over the live trap (you can incorporate the tarp into your set, they are fond of dark enclosed spaces), and run a flexible hose from a vehicle exhaust such as car/truck or ATV under the tarp. Carbon monoxide will gas them within 15 minutes, then place them head down in a 5 gallon pail of water "just to be sure." I've heard stories of them coming back if they didn't get enough gas.
I've also noted they rarely spray when caught in a #220 connibear which kills by constriction low on the neck on most skunks. In #160s they spray more frequently as the trap hits the back of the head/high neck. On the rare occasion I've caught one in a #110 or #120, there is also seldom any spray, as the trap doesn't have the power to impact the spinal column.
The most effective method I've used on some nuisance animals is to tarp over the live trap (you can incorporate the tarp into your set, they are fond of dark enclosed spaces), and run a flexible hose from a vehicle exhaust such as car/truck or ATV under the tarp. Carbon monoxide will gas them within 15 minutes, then place them head down in a 5 gallon pail of water "just to be sure." I've heard stories of them coming back if they didn't get enough gas.
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