RE: Vermin Disposal Preferred Method

I set all of my Havahart live traps in 55 gallon barrels laid on their side. I use the ones with the removable end held on by a tension band. I cut a rectangular hole in the removable lid that has clearance for the trap to slide in and out of. The dark, cave like appearance, has increased the success rate. It keeps the trap functional in deep snow. Scent and bait is not washed away with the irrigation sprinklers. A tarp over the barrel keeps it out of sight of prying eyes.

When you have success, the trap can be pulled out and the normal vermin dealt with.

When the dreaded skunk or civet cat is caught, go to plan “B”. I wait one day until the skunk has calmed down a bit. Then I slowly tip the barrel up on end. The trap will slide back into the barrel. I slowly fill the barrel with the garden hose. NO STINK! Place the offender in a plastic bag and off to the trash.