How to Trap a Raccoon in a Live Trap: US Edition

If you’re facing challenges with unwelcome guests, such as raccoons, understanding how to trap a raccoon in a live trap becomes essential, particularly given that state wildlife regulations often govern these activities, influencing what is permissible. Havahart, a company known for its humane animal traps, provides various models suitable for capturing these creatures safely, and their instructions are valuable for successful trapping. Effective bait is critical, so considering options recommended by wildlife control experts, like those at your local Department of Natural Resources, can significantly increase your chances of success while adhering to ethical and legal guidelines.

How to Trap a Raccoon in a Live Trap: US Edition

Raccoons, while fascinating creatures, can sometimes become unwelcome guests around our homes. If you’re dealing with raccoons causing damage or creating a nuisance, trapping them humanely using a live trap may be a necessary solution. This guide provides respectful and cautious advice on how to trap a raccoon in a live trap, focusing on safe and responsible practices within the United States. Always check and adhere to all local and state regulations regarding wildlife trapping before you begin.
Understanding the Responsibility

Before diving into the how-to, it’s crucial to understand the responsibility that comes with trapping wildlife. Trapping and relocating a wild animal is a serious undertaking, and you should always prioritize the animal’s well-being. A raccoon removed from its territory will struggle to find a safe and stable new territory. Therefore, always consider the ethical considerations before attempting to trap a raccoon.

I. Preliminary Steps & Considerations

Before you even consider setting a trap, there are several important steps to take. This preparation will significantly increase your chances of success and ensure the process is as humane as possible.

• Identify the Problem: Precisely pinpoint why you need to trap the raccoon. Is it raiding your garbage cans, damaging your garden, or nesting in your attic? Knowing the specific problem helps you target the trapping efforts effectively and determine if trapping is truly necessary.

• Rule out other solutions: Consider if there are other preventative measures you can take, for example, sealing off access points, using raccoon repellent sprays and powders, or securing your trash can lids.

• Research Local Laws: This is absolutely critical. Different states, and even different counties or cities, have specific laws regarding trapping and relocating wildlife. Failure to comply can result in hefty fines or worse. You must learn:

  • Is a permit required to trap a raccoon?
  • Are there specific regulations about where you can relocate a trapped raccoon? Some jurisdictions prohibit relocation altogether.
  • Are there specific traps that are recommended or prohibited?
  • Are there specific requirements for checking traps?

• Contact Local Experts: Reach out to your local animal control, wildlife services, or humane society. They can provide valuable insights into raccoon behavior in your area and offer guidance on humane trapping practices. They might also be able to provide alternative solutions.

II. Selecting the Right Live Trap

Choosing the correct trap is crucial for both the safety of the raccoon and the success of your trapping endeavor.

• Size Matters: Choose a trap that is specifically designed for raccoons. It should be large enough for the animal to comfortably stand and turn around without feeling cramped. A good size is typically around 32" x 12" x 10".
• Construction: Opt for a sturdy trap made of heavy-gauge wire mesh. Ensure that the door mechanism is reliable and will securely lock shut.
• Safety Features: Look for traps with rounded edges and a smooth interior to minimize the risk of injury to the raccoon. Avoid traps with sharp edges or exposed wires.
• One-Door vs. Two-Door: While two-door traps can sometimes be more effective, one-door traps are generally safer for inexperienced trappers. Raccoons can get spooked easier in a two-door trap if they see through the other end.

III. Baiting the Trap

The right bait can significantly increase your chances of successfully trapping a raccoon. However, bait selection can also influence which animals you attract.

• Raccoon Favorites: Raccoons are opportunistic omnivores. Sweet and oily foods often work well. Consider the following baits:

  • Marshmallows: Their sugary sweetness is highly attractive.
  • Peanut Butter: A classic choice, but be mindful of potential allergens if other animals are present.
  • Canned Sardines or Fish: The strong, oily scent can lure raccoons from a distance.
  • Sweet Corn: Another great option, especially if raccoons are raiding your garden.
  • Dry Cat Food: This can sometimes work when other food are scarce.

• Bait Placement: Place the bait at the very back of the trap, ensuring that the raccoon must fully enter the trap to reach it.

• Scent Masking: Wear gloves when handling the trap and bait to minimize human scent. You can also rub the trap with dirt or leaves to help it blend into its surroundings.

IV. Setting and Monitoring the Trap

Proper trap placement and regular monitoring are essential for successful and humane trapping.

• Strategic Placement: Place the trap in an area where you’ve observed raccoon activity, such as near garbage cans, gardens, or potential entry points to your home. Position the trap on a level surface.
• Camouflage: Conceal the trap as much as possible by covering it with leaves, branches, or burlap. Leave the entrance open and unobstructed. Be sure that you don’t hinder the function of the trap.
• Daily Checks: This is non-negotiable. Check the trap at least twice a day – once in the morning and once in the evening. This is to ensure the raccoon doesn’t stay in the trap any longer than necessary. If it is too hot or cold, the raccoon will not survive.
• What to do when you catch a raccoon: Once a raccoon is captured, approach the trap calmly and quietly. Avoid making sudden movements or loud noises. Consider covering the trap with a blanket or tarp to help reduce the raccoon’s stress. Wear heavy gloves to protect yourself from bites or scratches.

V. Understanding Signs of Distress

Recognizing the signs of a distressed raccoon is crucial for ensuring its well-being. If you observe any of these signs, take immediate action:

Sign	Possible Cause	Action
Excessive Panting	Overheating, Dehydration	Immediately move the trap to a shady, cooler location and offer water by pouring it into a dish nearby.
Visible Injuries	Injury during trapping or from other animals	Contact a wildlife rehabilitator immediately for guidance. Do not attempt to treat the injury yourself.
Extreme Lethargy	Dehydration, illness, starvation	Contact a wildlife rehabilitator for assistance.
Continuous frantic behaviour	Extreme stress, hunger	Relocate to a suitable location.

Alright, you’re armed with the basics on how to trap a raccoon in a live trap. Remember to check your local regulations, be humane, and stay safe. Good luck out there, and hopefully, you’ll be humanely relocating your masked bandit soon!