Introduction

Raccoons are notorious for their persistence when it comes to foraging for food and seeking out safe and cozy shelters, which sometimes results in them invading human properties. Although they might seem harmless and even cute from a distance, raccoons can pose serious threats to human health and safety, property integrity, and the well-being of pets and local wildlife. If you’re dealing with a raccoon infestation or are looking for ways to proactively prevent it, this article is for you. Here, we provide a comprehensive guide on how to get rid of raccoons humanely and effectively.

Reasons why raccoons are attracted to certain areas

Raccoons are usually drawn to areas that offer access to water, food, and shelter. This means that residential properties with ponds, bird feeders, pet food and garbage left exposed, open compost piles, holes and cracks in attics, sheds, and fences are particularly attractive to raccoons. To deter raccoons from invading your property, you need to make it as unappealing as possible.

Here are some tips:

• Keep all garbage and compost piles in sealed bins or containers
• Store pet food indoors or in a sealed container
• Install fences around gardens or ponds and secure any possible entry points
• Use specially designed bird feeders that are squirrel and raccoon-proof
• Regularly check and fix any holes or cracks in your home’s exterior and interior structures

Types of humane traps and how to DIY a trap

Trapping raccoons can be an effective way of removing them, especially if they have already made your property their home. However, it’ crucial to ensure that the trapping is safe and humane. Here are the two main types of traps and how to set them:

Live traps

Live traps are designed to capture the raccoons alive and unharmed. They usually feature a one-way mechanism that allows the racoon to get in but not out, so you can later release it safely in a designated woodland, park, or other area that’s at least 10 miles away from your home.

To set a live trap:

1. Choose a location that’s likely to attract a raccoon, such as near garbage cans or where you’ve seen raccoon activity before.
2. Bait the trap with food that raccoons are known to like, such as sweet corn, watermelons, or marshmallows. Make sure to place the bait in the middle of the trap.
3. Set the trap by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Usually, you’ll need to engage the locking mechanism, so the door will close once the racoon enters the trap.
4. Check the trap regularly every day to avoid keeping the raccoon trapped for too long. Once you’ve caught a raccoon, put on gloves and release it in a new location, far from your home and any busy roads or highways.

DIY traps

If you can’t afford a live trap or don’t want to buy or rent one, you can try making your traps using everyday materials. DIY traps can be a bit harder to set and may not be as reliable as commercial ones, so proceed with caution, and monitor them closely.

One popular DIY trap involves:

• Taping a yardstick or wooden dowel to a large plastic bucket or trash can
• Coating the inside of the bucket with a slippery substance like vegetable oil or cooking spray
• Baiting the bottom of the bucket with food or peanut butter
• Leaving the trap in an area with a high raccoon presence and waiting for it to fall in as it tries to reach the bait
• Checking the trap frequently and wearing gloves when releasing the raccoon from the bucket

Relocating raccoons humanely

If you decide to trap and relocate raccoons, it’s essential to do so safely and humanely. This involves finding an area that can provide the raccoon with enough food, water, shelter, and other essential resources and is not too close to urban and suburban environments. Also, make sure to obtain the necessary permits or licenses to trap and release raccoons, as these regulations may vary depending on your location.

When relocating raccoons:

• Make sure the raccoon is healthy, uninjured, and fully awake before releasing it.
• Wear gloves and make as little noise as possible to avoid startling or agitating the raccoon.
• Open the trap slowly and allow the raccoon to exit at its own pace.
• Back away from the trap and observe the raccoon for a few minutes to make sure it’s not exhibiting any signs of distress or disease.

Confronting potential problems when removing raccoons

While trapping and relocating raccoons may seem like a simple solution to a bothersome problem, it may bring about unforeseen legal, ethical, and safety issues.

Legal restrictions

Some states or municipalities may require a permit to trap and relocate raccoons. Failing to obtain these permits can lead to fines or other legal consequences. You may also be required to release the raccoons in state-designated areas, away from private properties.

Animal welfare concerns

Trapping a raccoon can be stressful and even traumatic for the animal if it’s not done correctly. If a trap is not placed in a secure and well-ventilated area, raccoons may suffer from heat exhaustion, dehydration, or other health complications. Also, extended periods of food deprivation or confinement can cause severe anxiety and depression in raccoons, which can have long-term health impacts.

Dangers of DIY raccoon removal methods

Attempting to remove raccoons using DIY traps or exclusion devices can be risky and often leads to unsuccessful results. If the trap is not sturdy enough, the raccoon may escape or cause damage to property and other animals. Also, if the raccoon is not properly secured and handled, it may scratch, bite, or spread diseases to humans or pets.

Securing your property against future raccoon infestations

Once you’ve successfully removed a raccoon from your property, the next step is to prevent more from coming back. There are various preventative measures you can take to keep raccoons at bay.

Create a maintenance checklist

Regularly inspect your property’s exterior and interior structures, including roofs, gutters, walls, and shutter. Check for any cracks, holes, or gaps that can invite raccoons or other wildlife to sneak into your home. Make sure to fix any damage as soon as possible.

Identify new raccoon infestations and respond quickly

If you notice any signs of raccoon activity, such as footprints, scratch marks, or droppings, take immediate action. Set up traps, remove any food or water sources, and contact a professional wildlife removal expert if needed.

Conclusion

Raccoon infestations can be a major headache for homeowners, but they don’t have to be. By following the tips provided in this article, you can safely and humanely trap and relocate raccoons or effectively prevent them from invading your property. Remember always to follow the laws and regulations in your area and to prioritize the raccoon’s well-being throughout the removal process.