So here's the scenario. I have a skunk in a high end district next to a wildlife sanctuary. The LO's like watching the deer, turkeys, fox and such but not the skunk that seems to have a den on the edge of their yard
This makes the Mrs. very uncomfortable so the called the DNR about it. In turn our local CO has asked me to see if I can help them out. After talking to the LO's, it seems the skunk started gathering grass and carrying it to it's den which tells me she is expecting very soon. I set 2 live traps, one by her den and another several feet away along a well worn trail. My problem is that apparently she has given birth as there has been no sign of activity the past several days and even the LO hasn't seen it early in the morning as usual. I know most critters don't eat much if at all right after delivery but it has been 6 nights now. My question is how long does a skunk usually hole up after giving birth?

As I understand it, most mammals don't eat much before or after giving birth due to no interest before birth and eating the placenta etc. after. So could be a few days till she comes out to feed, and she will be ravenous! I'd bait the cage with a fishy bait. If you catch her in the cage, will you be able to dig out the babies? It's my understanding that the babies are armed at birth, and will at least leak if handled.

It's unlikely that I will be able to dig them out. I have considered pulling up for a few week until the little ones come out and trying to catch them too but think I will concentrate on mom for now and let mother nature take care of the rest.

If your intent is to dispatch all critters, the easiest solution would be to drop a gas cartridge in the den and cover.

Sorry but I should have posted up that I did catch her but she did not show signs of nursing or have had given birth. I do agree with you on complete dispatch but usually have to show proof.