Raccoons can be a nuisance to homeowners, raiding gardens, overturning trash cans, and even entering homes. If you’re dealing with a raccoon problem, you need to act quickly and effectively to remove them from your property. One of the most effective methods for catching raccoons is to use a trap. However, you need to choose the right trap and set it up properly and bait the trap with something irresistible raccoons love.
There are many different types of traps available, but the most common type is the live cage trap. These traps are large enough to hold raccoons without harming them and have a door that can be locked once the raccoon is inside. When choosing a live cage trap, select one that is large enough to accommodate the raccoon but not so large that it gives the raccoon too much room to move around. You should also choose a trap that is made of durable materials and has a sturdy door. Once you have selected a trap, you need to bait it. Raccoons are attracted to sweet foods, so a good bait is a mixture of peanut butter and jelly or fruit.
Once you have baited the trap, you need to set it up in an area where raccoons are known to frequent. If you see raccoons around your home, try to identify their favorite hiding places or feeding areas. Once you have identified a good location, set the trap and wait. It may take a few days for a raccoon to find the trap, so be patient. Once a raccoon has been caught, you need to remove it from the trap and release it away from your home. It’s important to release raccoons at least 10 miles away from your property to prevent them from returning.
Selecting the Ideal Bait for Raccoon Allure
The choice of bait plays a pivotal role in capturing raccoons. To entice these curious creatures, consider offering them their favorite delicacies. Some tried-and-tested options include:
Sweet and Sugary Treats: Raccoons have a sweet tooth and can’t resist the allure of sugary treats like marshmallows, honey, or fruit jelly. These sugary temptations provide a quick energy boost, making them an irresistible bait.
Savory Goodness: In addition to sweets, raccoons also enjoy savory treats. Cooked meat, fish, or pet food can effectively entice these opportunistic feeders. The strong aroma of these savory treats is sure to catch their attention.
Natural Delicacies: Raccoons are instinctively drawn to natural food sources. Fruits like bananas, apples, or grapes can be an excellent bait option. Alternatively, consider using nuts, corn, or sunflower seeds, which are equally appealing to raccoons.
Bait Presentation and Trap Placement
Once you have selected the ideal bait, it’s crucial to present it strategically. Place the bait deep within the trap, ensuring that the raccoon needs to fully enter the trap to retrieve it. This tactic reduces the chances of the raccoon grabbing the bait from outside the trap and escaping.
Position the trap in an area where raccoons are likely to roam, such as near garbage cans, pet food dishes, or potential den sites. Some experienced trappers recommend placing the trap parallel to a wall or fence, as raccoons often travel close to these boundaries.
| Bait | Suitability |
|---|---|
| Sweet treats (marshmallows, jelly) | High |
| Savory treats (meat, fish) | High |
| Natural delicacies (fruits, nuts) | Medium |
| Pet food | Medium |
| Corn | Low |
Strategic Trap Placement: Identifying Raccoon Hotspots
1. Garbage Cans and Dumpsters
Raccoons are notorious for scavenging in garbage cans and dumpsters. Place traps near these areas, especially at night when raccoons are most active.
2. Water Sources
Raccoons require access to water, so placing traps near ponds, streams, or birdbaths can be effective. Ensure the traps are not submerged in water.
3. Dens
Raccoons often nest in trees, attics, or outbuildings. Inspect potential nesting sites and set traps nearby. Avoid placing traps directly inside dens, as raccoons may become aggressive.
4. Travel Routes
Raccoons establish regular travel paths between food and water sources. Identifying these paths and placing traps along them can increase your chances of capture. Observe raccoon tracks or droppings to identify potential travel routes. Consider the following:
- Fence Lines: Raccoons often follow fence lines, providing a convenient path for travel.
- Walls and Hedges: Raccoons may navigate along walls or hedges to avoid open areas.
- Vegetation: Dense vegetation can provide cover for raccoons, so place traps near overgrown areas where travel is likely.
- Access Points: Identify potential entry points into your property, such as holes in fences or open windows, and place traps nearby.
| Common Raccoon Travel Routes |
|---|
| Fence Lines |
| Walls and Hedges |
| Dense Vegetation |
| Access Points |
Humane Trapping Practices: Ensuring Raccoon Well-being
1. Choose the Right Trap
Select a trap that is large enough for the raccoon to move around comfortably but not so large that it can injure itself. Cage traps are typically the most humane option as they provide ventilation and prevent the raccoon from escaping or harming itself.
2. Bait the Trap Properly
Use bait that raccoons find irresistible, such as fruit, pet food, or fish scraps. Place the bait in the back of the trap to encourage the raccoon to enter completely.
3. Set the Trap in a Strategic Location
Place the trap in an area where raccoons are likely to travel, such as near their den or along their regular paths. Secure the trap firmly to prevent it from tipping over or being dragged away.
4. Monitor the Trap Regularly
Check the trap every few hours to ensure the raccoon is not in distress. If the raccoon has been trapped for more than 24 hours, release it immediately and consider contacting a wildlife rehabilitator for assistance.
5. Release the Raccoon Safely
Once you have captured the raccoon, release it in a suitable location far away from your property. Consider releasing it in a park, wooded area, or other natural habitat.
| Recommended Release Distances |
|---|
| Urban Areas: 10 miles |
| Suburban Areas: 5 miles |
| Rural Areas: 1 mile |
To ensure the raccoon’s safety:
– Wear gloves when handling the trap.
– Cover the trap with a blanket or towel to reduce stress.
– Transport the raccoon in a secure container with ventilation.
– Release the raccoon in a safe location away from roads and predators.
Setting the Trap Correctly: Avoiding Escape and Injury
1. Choose the Right Trap
Select a sturdy, cage-style trap sized appropriately for a raccoon. Ensure the trap door operates smoothly and locks securely.
2. Select a Strategic Location
Place the trap in an area where raccoons frequent, such as near garbage cans or under decks. Use a discreet location to prevent triggering the trap accidentally.
3. Create a Guiding Path
Clear a path leading to the trap entrance and sprinkle food crumbs to guide the raccoon towards it. Remove any obstacles that could hinder their entry.
4. Securely Anchor the Trap
Drive stakes into the ground and use wire or rope to secure the trap firmly to prevent it from being overturned or dragged away.
5. Camouflage the Trap
Cover the trap with natural materials like leaves or branches to blend it into the surroundings and minimize visibility to the raccoon.
6. Use the Right Bait:
Choose a bait that is highly attractive to raccoons, such as:
| Bait | Advantages |
|---|---|
| Cat food | Strong aroma attracts raccoons |
| Marshmallows | Soft and sticky, making it difficult for raccoons to resist |
| Fruit (bananas, apples) | Sweet and tempting, especially for hungry raccoons |
| Peanut butter | Rich in fat and protein, making it highly desirable |
| Bacon grease | Irresistible scent that lures raccoons from a distance |
Place the bait in the back of the trap, securing it to the floor or side to prevent easy removal.
Capturing the Raccoon: Safe and Humane Transportation
Baiting the Trap
Choose bait that raccoons find irresistible, such as sweet fruits, marshmallows, or pet food. Secure the bait inside the trap using a wire or string to prevent the animal from easily removing it.
Setting the Trap
Place the trap in a secluded area where raccoons are known to frequent. Ensure the trap is level and stable to prevent it from tipping over. Set the trigger mechanism carefully to prevent accidental releases or injuries.
Monitoring the Trap
Check the trap regularly to ensure the raccoon is not suffering from heat or cold stress. If the temperature is extreme, move the trap to a shaded or cooler area. Provide water for the raccoon if it has been in the trap for an extended period.
Releasing the Raccoon
Once the raccoon is trapped, you must release it in a safe, wooded area that is at least 10 miles away from the capture site. Ensure the release point is not near human habitation or roads to minimize the risk of the animal being recaptured or causing harm.
Safe Transportation
Use a covered crate or box lined with towels or newspaper to transport the raccoon. Ensure the crate is well-ventilated and has a handle for easy carrying. Avoid handling the raccoon directly, as it may become stressed or aggressive.
Gentle Handling
When releasing the raccoon, approach the crate slowly and calmly. Open the door and allow the animal to exit on its own terms. Avoid loud noises or sudden movements that may startle it.
Distance from Capture Site
Release the raccoon at least 10 miles away from the capture site to reduce the likelihood of it returning. This distance helps prevent the animal from associating the area with a negative experience.
Post-Capture Care and Release Protocol
1. Safety First
Always prioritize your safety and the well-being of the raccoon when handling captured animals. Wear protective gloves and avoid making sudden movements that could startle the animal.
2. Assess the Raccoon’s Condition
Before doing anything else, determine the raccoon’s condition. If the animal is injured or appears ill, seek veterinary assistance immediately. Do not attempt to handle it yourself.
3. Provide a Quiet and Dark Place
Transfer the raccoon to a quiet, dark, and well-ventilated container, such as a pet carrier or a cardboard box with air holes. This will help reduce stress and prevent injury.
4. Keep the Raccoon Hydrated
Offer the raccoon water using a shallow dish or a syringe. Avoid overhydration, especially if the animal is showing signs of respiratory distress.
5. Do Not Feed the Raccoon
It’s generally not recommended to feed wild raccoons in captivity. They may have different dietary requirements than captive animals, and feeding them can lead to nutritional problems.
6. Contact Wildlife Authorities
Notify your local wildlife authorities or animal control about the captured raccoon. They will provide guidance on the appropriate release protocol and potential rehabilitation options.
7. Release Site Selection
Choose a release site that is far from human activity, has ample food and water sources, and provides natural shelter. Consider the raccoon’s territory and avoid releasing it in an unfamiliar area.
8. Release Method
Release the raccoon at dusk or dawn to minimize its exposure to predators and human interaction. Open the container door and allow the animal to leave on its own.
9. Monitor the Release
Observe the raccoon’s behavior after its release. If it appears disoriented or injured, contact wildlife authorities for assistance.
10. Potential Health and Safety Concerns
Raccoons can carry diseases that are transmissible to humans, such as rabies and roundworm. Always wear protective gear when handling them, and wash your hands thoroughly afterward. If you experience any symptoms of illness, seek medical attention immediately.
| Potential Health Concerns | Preventive Measures |
|---|---|
| Rabies | Wear gloves and avoid contact with the animal’s saliva |
| Roundworm | Wash hands thoroughly after handling the animal or its feces |
| Salmonellosis | Avoid handling the animal’s droppings |
How to Catch a Raccoon in a Trap
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Choose the Right Trap: Opt for a live cage trap that is large enough for the raccoon but not so large that it can easily escape. Choose a trap made of sturdy materials such as galvanized wire or steel.
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Bait the Trap: Place a desirable bait inside the trap, such as marshmallows, sweet fruit, or peanut butter. Ensure that the bait is placed at the back of the trap to encourage the raccoon to move all the way in.
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Set the Trap: Position the trap in an area where raccoons are commonly sighted, such as near a trash can or under a deck. Place the trap on a flat surface and secure it firmly to prevent it from toppling over.
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Check the Trap Regularly: Monitor the trap frequently to check for captured animals. Check the trap daily, especially at dawn and dusk when raccoons are most active.
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Release Non-Target Animals: If you accidentally capture a non-target animal, such as a cat or a squirrel, release it immediately. Handle the animal with care to avoid injury.
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Relocate the Raccoon: Once a raccoon has been caught, wear gloves and carefully remove it from the trap. Transport the raccoon to a suitable release location that is at least 5 miles away from your property and far from any residential areas.
People Also Ask About How To Catch A Raccoon In A Trap
What is the best bait for a raccoon trap?
The best bait for a raccoon trap is typically sweet food, such as marshmallows, sweet fruit, or peanut butter. These foods are highly attractive to raccoons and will entice them to enter the trap.
How do you release a raccoon from a trap humanely?
To release a raccoon from a trap humanely, wear gloves and carefully remove the animal from the trap. Place the trap on a flat surface and open the door. Allow the raccoon to exit the trap on its own. Do not attempt to handle the raccoon directly, as it may bite or scratch.
Can you use a dog trap to catch a raccoon?
Yes, you can use a dog trap to catch a raccoon. However, it is important to choose a trap that is large enough for the raccoon and to secure it firmly to prevent the animal from escaping. Additionally, you should place the trap in an area where raccoons are commonly sighted and check it regularly for captured animals.
