Raccoon Trapping: Your Complete, Humane Guide

Raccoons, those masked bandits of the night, can be quite a nuisance when they start raiding your trash cans, gardens, or even decide to move into your attic. If you're dealing with these furry intruders, trapping raccoons might be the most effective way to deal with the situation. But before you grab any old trap and start setting it up, there are a few things you need to know. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, ensuring you can trap raccoons safely and humanely.

Understanding Raccoon Behavior

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of trapping, let's take a moment to understand our masked adversaries. Raccoons are intelligent, adaptable creatures. They're nocturnal, meaning they're most active at night, and they're opportunistic eaters. This means they'll eat just about anything they can get their paws on, from insects and berries to pet food and garbage. Understanding these behaviors is crucial for effective raccoon trapping.

Raccoons are also creatures of habit. They often follow the same routes and visit the same areas repeatedly. This is why identifying their travel paths and common feeding spots is the first step in successful trapping. Look for signs of raccoon activity, such as overturned trash cans, droppings, or footprints. Once you've identified these areas, you'll know where to set your traps for the best results. Remember, patience is key when dealing with raccoons. They're smart animals, and it might take a few tries to outsmart them.

Another important aspect of raccoon behavior is their social structure. While they're generally solitary animals, they often congregate in family groups, especially during the breeding season. If you're dealing with a mother raccoon and her kits, you'll need to take extra care to ensure that all the animals are safely trapped and relocated. Removing a mother raccoon without also removing her young can lead to the starvation of the kits, which is something we definitely want to avoid. Always consider the potential for dependent young when planning your raccoon trapping strategy.

Choosing the Right Trap

Okay, guys, let's talk traps! Not all traps are created equal, and choosing the right one is crucial for the humane capture of raccoons. The best option is a live trap, which allows you to catch the raccoon without harming it. These traps come in various sizes, but for raccoons, you'll want one that's at least 32x12x10 inches. This size will comfortably accommodate a raccoon without causing it undue stress or injury.

When selecting a live trap, look for one that's sturdy and well-constructed. Raccoons are strong animals, and they can easily damage a flimsy trap, potentially escaping and injuring themselves in the process. A trap made of heavy-gauge wire mesh is a good choice, as it can withstand the raccoon's attempts to escape. Also, make sure the trap has a solid bottom to prevent the raccoon from digging its way out. A trap with a smooth, rounded handle will make it easier to carry the captured raccoon without stressing the animal or yourself.

There are two main types of live traps: single-door and double-door. Single-door traps have one entrance, while double-door traps have entrances on both ends. Double-door traps can be more effective because they give the raccoon the illusion that it can pass straight through, making it less wary of entering. However, single-door traps are also effective and often more affordable. Whichever type you choose, make sure it has a sensitive trigger mechanism that will reliably close the door(s) when the raccoon enters.

Avoid using leg-hold traps or other types of traps that can cause serious injury to the animal. These traps are inhumane and can also pose a risk to pets or other wildlife. Live trapping is the most humane and ethical way to deal with raccoon problems.

Baiting the Trap

Now that you've got your trap, it's time to talk bait! Baiting a raccoon trap effectively is an art, but don't worry, I'm here to help you become a master baiter (pun intended!). Raccoons are attracted to a variety of foods, but some baits are more effective than others. Sweet and smelly baits tend to work best, as they appeal to the raccoon's keen sense of smell.

Some popular raccoon baits include marshmallows, sweet corn, grapes, and peanut butter. Marshmallows are a classic choice because they're sweet, visually appealing, and easy to handle. Sweet corn and grapes are also excellent options, especially during the summer months when these foods are readily available. Peanut butter is a perennial favorite, but you'll want to use it sparingly to avoid making a sticky mess. You can also try using commercial raccoon baits, which are specifically formulated to attract raccoons.

When placing the bait in the trap, the key is to position it so that the raccoon has to fully enter the trap to reach it. Place the bait at the back of the trap, behind the trigger mechanism. This will ensure that the raccoon steps on the trigger plate, activating the trap. You can also create a trail of bait leading up to the trap to entice the raccoon to enter. However, avoid placing too much bait outside the trap, as this can allow the raccoon to get a free meal without getting caught.

It's also a good idea to change the bait every few days, especially if it's been raining or if the bait has become stale. Fresh bait is more attractive to raccoons and will increase your chances of success. And remember, patience is a virtue. It might take a few nights for a raccoon to enter the trap, so don't get discouraged if you don't catch one right away.

Setting the Trap

Alright, you've got your trap and your bait, so let's get down to the nitty-gritty of setting the raccoon trap! The location of your trap is crucial for success. Remember those signs of raccoon activity we talked about earlier? That's where you want to set your trap. Common locations include near trash cans, gardens, fences, and areas where you've seen raccoon droppings or footprints.

When setting the trap, make sure it's placed on a level surface. A wobbly trap can make the raccoon suspicious and less likely to enter. You can also camouflage the trap by covering it with leaves or branches, but be careful not to interfere with the trap's mechanism. The goal is to make the trap as inconspicuous as possible while still allowing it to function properly. Secure the trap so the raccoon can’t turn it over or move it. You can use stakes or heavy objects to keep it in place.

Before setting the trap, it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with the trap's mechanism. Practice setting and releasing the trap a few times so you know how it works. This will help you avoid accidentally trapping yourself or getting your fingers caught in the mechanism. Wear gloves when handling the trap to avoid transferring your scent to it. Raccoons have a strong sense of smell, and they may be wary of a trap that smells like humans.

Once the trap is set, check it regularly, preferably every morning and evening. This will ensure that the raccoon doesn't remain trapped for an extended period, which can cause it undue stress and anxiety. It will also allow you to release any non-target animals that may have accidentally entered the trap. Speaking of which, it’s extremely important to check your local laws regarding trapping. Some areas may have regulations about the type of traps you can use, how often you need to check them, and where you can relocate the animals.

Handling a Trapped Raccoon

Okay, you've caught a raccoon! Now what? Handling a trapped raccoon requires caution and care, for both your safety and the animal's well-being. Raccoons can be aggressive when they feel threatened, so it's important to approach the trap slowly and quietly. Avoid making sudden movements or loud noises that could startle the animal.

The best way to handle a trapped raccoon is to minimize direct contact. Wear heavy gloves and long sleeves to protect yourself from bites and scratches. You can also cover the trap with a blanket or tarp to calm the raccoon. This will reduce its stress and make it less likely to try to escape. Never put your hands inside the trap or try to handle the raccoon directly.

Once the trap is covered, carefully lift it by the handle and carry it to your vehicle. Place the trap in the back of your vehicle, making sure it's secure and won't slide around during transport. Drive slowly and carefully to your chosen release location. Remember, the goal is to relocate the raccoon in a way that minimizes stress and maximizes its chances of survival.

When selecting a release location, choose an area that's at least five miles away from your property. This will prevent the raccoon from returning. Look for a wooded area with a natural water source, such as a stream or pond. This will provide the raccoon with food, water, and shelter. Avoid releasing the raccoon in residential areas or near busy roads, as this could put the animal at risk.

Once you've reached your release location, carefully remove the cover from the trap and open the door. Stand back and allow the raccoon to exit the trap on its own. Avoid making any sudden movements or loud noises that could startle the animal. Once the raccoon has left the trap, clean and disinfect the trap thoroughly to remove any scent or bacteria. This will help prevent the spread of disease and make the trap more effective for future use.

Relocating Raccoons: Legal and Ethical Considerations

Before you start relocating raccoons, it's crucial to understand the legal and ethical considerations involved. Many states and local jurisdictions have laws regulating the trapping and relocation of wildlife, including raccoons. These laws may specify the types of traps you can use, how often you need to check them, and where you can relocate the animals. Violating these laws can result in fines or other penalties, so it's important to do your research and ensure you're in compliance.

In addition to legal considerations, there are also ethical considerations to keep in mind. Relocating a raccoon can be stressful and disorienting for the animal. It's being removed from its familiar territory and forced to compete for resources in a new environment. This can reduce its chances of survival, especially if the new area is already heavily populated with other raccoons.

For these reasons, relocation should only be considered as a last resort. Before you start trapping raccoons, explore other options for resolving the problem. This might include removing food sources, sealing entry points to your home, or using deterrents to discourage raccoons from entering your property. If relocation is necessary, choose a release location that's suitable for the raccoon and minimizes the stress of the move.

It's also important to avoid relocating raccoons during the breeding season, which typically runs from late winter to early summer. If you trap a mother raccoon with young, relocating her without also relocating her kits can lead to the starvation of the young. If you encounter this situation, contact a wildlife rehabilitator for assistance.

Preventing Future Raccoon Problems

Trapping and relocating raccoons can be an effective solution for immediate problems, but it's not a long-term solution if you don't address the underlying causes of the issue. Preventing future raccoon problems is the key to keeping these masked bandits away from your property for good. The first step is to remove any potential food sources. This includes securing your trash cans with tight-fitting lids, bringing pet food indoors at night, and cleaning up any fallen fruit or berries in your yard.

Raccoons are also attracted to areas where they can find shelter, such as attics, crawl spaces, and sheds. Inspect your property for any potential entry points and seal them up. This might involve repairing damaged siding, patching holes in your roof, or installing mesh screens over vents. You can also trim back tree branches that overhang your roof, as these can provide raccoons with easy access to your attic.

Another effective deterrent is to use motion-activated lights or sprinklers. These devices will startle raccoons and discourage them from entering your property. You can also try using raccoon repellents, which are available at most hardware stores and garden centers. These repellents typically contain ingredients that raccoons find unpleasant, such as capsaicin (the active ingredient in chili peppers).

By taking these preventative measures, you can create an environment that's less attractive to raccoons and reduce the likelihood of future problems. And remember, dealing with wildlife issues can be challenging, so don't hesitate to seek professional help if you're feeling overwhelmed. A qualified wildlife removal expert can assess your situation, develop a customized plan, and implement humane solutions to resolve your raccoon problems.

Conclusion

So, there you have it, guys! A complete guide on how to trap raccoons humanely and effectively. Remember, patience, understanding, and a little bit of know-how are your best weapons in this battle of wits. By following these steps, you can reclaim your property from those masked bandits and enjoy a raccoon-free life. Good luck, and happy trapping!