This trap entices the animal into the cage with food. There is a trip pan that will trigger the door shut when the animal steps on it. [1] X Research source Place the bait behind the trigger plate in a 1-door trap. You don’t want the bait to be close to the trap walls or the raccoon might swipe the bait from outside the trap. Professionals like 1-door traps because it’s easier for large animals to enter them. [2] X Research source In a 2-door trap, place the bait right behind the trigger or bury it under the trigger. Or you could hang it from the top of the trap. The trap should be at least 32-inches long. [3] X Research source
You are most likely to find raccoons in covered areas. They like to nestle in places like attics, porches, woodpiles, tree hollows, and underneath structures. Secure the trap. The raccoon might try to knock the trap over. You can prevent this by securing your trap. To do this, put a brick or weight on the top of the trap.
Paw hold traps will clamp down on the animal’s paw by holding it. They have a small snapping clamp device. Once caught, the animal is usually killed by shooting it. Again, though, check your local laws. You could always hire a wildlife expert to find the most lawful, humane way to get rid of your raccoon nuisance.
Raccoons are drawn by foods that are high in fat or sugar. The best: sugary foods. Raccoons love them. The caution is that these foods could attracted other wildlife, so use such foods within a live raccoon trap.
In fact, some trappers say marshmallows draw raccoons the best of all! [5] X Research source Raccoons also are drawn to wet cat food, fish in a can, bacon, and cooked fatty meat, like chicken legs. [6] X Research source
You want to make sure the raccoon enters the trap completely, including its full body and tail. So place the bait far enough back to entice the raccoon to do this. You want to place the bait so the raccoon will step on the trigger. In a trap, this means the raccoon will step on the metal plate.
Make sure you wear gloves when you apply the bait because raccoons can sense human scent. In fact, it’s a good idea to use the gloves whenever you handle the trap, including once you catch the raccoon.
You might catch a raccoon in a few minutes. Or it could take a couple of days. The trapped animal is going to be scared and frightened. It’s more humane to not leave it for days on end in a trap.
Speak softly to the raccoon as you approach. Be gentle. This will calm the animal. Drape a cloth over the trap to instill further calm. Hold the cage away from your body. Wear heavy gloves. When relocating the raccoon, take it at least 5 miles away from your property, and release it. Be cautious. Raccoons can be dangerous. Consult an animal professional if you’re at all unsure.
Raccoons are drawn to garbage, so remove it frequently. Wash your garbage cans. Eliminate all food and water sources for a raccoon. Put tight-fitting lids on your garbage cans. Fix broken vents and screens. Close windows. Close gates and eliminate gaps in fences. Raccoons sometimes enter homes through fireplaces.
