Build A Humane Raccoon Trap: Step-by-Step Guide

Raccoons, those masked bandits of the night, can sometimes become unwelcome guests around our homes. While they might look cute and cuddly, they can cause significant damage to property, rummage through garbage, and even carry diseases. If you're dealing with a raccoon problem, building a humane raccoon trap can be an effective solution. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, providing you with the knowledge and steps necessary to construct a trap that's both effective and safe for the animal. We'll cover everything from choosing the right materials to setting the trap properly, ensuring you can resolve your raccoon issue responsibly. So, if you're ready to take control of your property and protect it from these curious critters, let's dive in and learn how to build a raccoon trap.

Understanding Raccoon Behavior

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of building a trap, it's crucial to understand raccoon behavior. Knowing what makes these creatures tick will greatly increase your chances of successfully trapping them. Raccoons are incredibly intelligent and adaptable animals. They're nocturnal, meaning they're most active at night, which is why you'll often hear them rustling around after dark. Their diet is highly varied, making them opportunistic eaters. They'll consume anything from fruits and nuts to insects, eggs, and even garbage. This diverse diet is one of the reasons they're so drawn to residential areas, where they can easily find a smorgasbord of potential food sources.

One of the most distinctive features of raccoons is their dexterous paws. These paws allow them to open doors, unscrew lids, and generally get into places you wouldn't think possible. This dexterity also makes them adept at manipulating objects, which is something to keep in mind when designing your trap. They're also creatures of habit, often following the same routes and visiting the same areas night after night. This predictability can be used to your advantage when choosing where to place your trap. Understanding their behavior patterns, such as their preference for sheltered areas and their reliance on scent to find food, will help you select the best location and bait for your trap. Remember, a well-informed approach is the key to a successful and humane trapping process. By understanding the animal you're trying to catch, you can build a trap that's both effective and safe, ensuring the raccoon is captured without causing it unnecessary stress or harm.

Choosing the Right Materials

The success of your raccoon trap hinges not only on its design but also on the materials you use. Selecting the right materials is crucial for ensuring the trap's durability, effectiveness, and, most importantly, the safety of the raccoon. When it comes to building a raccoon trap, you have a couple of primary material options: wire mesh and wood. Each has its pros and cons, and the best choice for you will depend on your skills, resources, and the specific needs of your situation.

Wire mesh traps are a popular choice due to their durability and visibility. They allow the raccoon to see through the trap, which can make it less hesitant to enter. Look for heavy-gauge wire mesh with small openings to prevent the raccoon from escaping or getting its paws caught. The mesh should be galvanized or coated to prevent rust and corrosion, ensuring the trap lasts for a long time. Wooden traps, on the other hand, can be more discreet and provide a more enclosed environment, which some raccoons might find less intimidating. If you opt for a wooden trap, use sturdy, weather-resistant wood like pressure-treated lumber or cedar. Make sure the wood is smooth and free of splinters to avoid injuring the raccoon. Regardless of the material you choose, the size of the trap is crucial. A trap that's too small will be ineffective, while one that's too large might be difficult to handle and transport. A good rule of thumb is to aim for a trap that's at least 32 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 12 inches high. This size provides ample space for the raccoon while still being manageable. Remember, the goal is to build a trap that's both effective and safe for the animal. Choosing the right materials is the first step in achieving that goal, ensuring your trap is up to the task of humanely capturing the raccoon.

Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Wire Mesh Trap

Now, let's get down to the actual construction of a wire mesh raccoon trap. This type of trap is widely favored for its durability, visibility, and ease of construction. Following these step-by-step instructions will guide you through the process, ensuring you create a trap that's both effective and humane. Before you begin, gather all the necessary materials and tools. You'll need heavy-gauge wire mesh, wire cutters, pliers, hog rings or wire clamps, a sturdy door mechanism, and a trigger mechanism. Safety is paramount, so wear work gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges.

Step 1: Cut the Wire Mesh: The first step is to cut the wire mesh into the appropriate sizes for the trap's sides, top, bottom, and back. A typical trap size is 32 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 12 inches high, but you can adjust these dimensions to suit your needs. Use wire cutters to carefully cut the mesh, making sure the edges are clean and even. You'll need two pieces for the sides (12x32 inches), one for the top (12x12 inches), one for the bottom (12x32 inches), and one for the back (12x12 inches). Step 2: Assemble the Frame: Once you have your mesh pieces, it's time to assemble the frame. Start by connecting the sides to the bottom, using hog rings or wire clamps to securely fasten the mesh together. Make sure the connections are tight and there are no gaps or sharp edges that could injure the raccoon. Next, attach the back piece to the sides and bottom, again using hog rings or wire clamps. This will create a three-sided box. Step 3: Install the Door Mechanism: The door mechanism is a crucial part of the trap, as it's what will ultimately capture the raccoon. There are various types of door mechanisms available, but a gravity-operated door is a common and effective choice. This type of door swings down and locks into place when the trigger is activated. Install the door at the front of the trap, ensuring it moves freely and smoothly. You'll need to attach hinges to the top of the door and the top of the trap, allowing the door to swing downward. Step 4: Set Up the Trigger Mechanism: The trigger mechanism is what activates the door, trapping the raccoon inside. A common trigger mechanism involves a treadle, which is a flat plate inside the trap that the raccoon steps on. When the raccoon steps on the treadle, it releases a lever that allows the door to swing shut. Position the treadle in the center of the trap, ensuring it's stable and doesn't wobble. Connect the treadle to the door mechanism with a sturdy wire or cable. Test the trigger mechanism to make sure it's working properly. The door should swing shut quickly and securely when the treadle is stepped on. Step 5: Add Finishing Touches: Once the basic structure of the trap is complete, it's time to add some finishing touches. Inspect the trap for any sharp edges or loose wires that could injure the raccoon. Use pliers to bend or cut off any sharp points. You can also add a wire mesh floor to the trap to provide a more comfortable surface for the raccoon to stand on. This will also prevent the raccoon from digging its way out of the trap. By following these steps, you'll have a sturdy and effective wire mesh raccoon trap ready to deploy. Remember, the key to success is to build a trap that's both functional and humane, ensuring the raccoon is captured safely and without unnecessary stress.

Step-by-Step Guide to Building a Wooden Trap

For those who prefer a more discreet and enclosed trap, building a wooden raccoon trap is an excellent option. Wooden traps can provide a sense of security for the raccoon, making it more likely to enter, and they can also be more aesthetically pleasing in your yard. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of constructing a sturdy and effective wooden trap. Before you begin, gather your materials and tools. You'll need pressure-treated lumber or cedar, a saw, a drill, screws or nails, a sturdy door mechanism, and a trigger mechanism. As with any construction project, safety is paramount, so wear safety glasses and work gloves.

Step 1: Cut the Wood: The first step is to cut the wood into the appropriate sizes for the trap's sides, top, bottom, back, and door. A typical trap size is 32 inches long, 12 inches wide, and 12 inches high, but you can adjust these dimensions to suit your specific needs. Use a saw to carefully cut the wood, making sure the cuts are straight and even. You'll need two pieces for the sides (12x32 inches), one for the top (12x12 inches), one for the bottom (12x32 inches), one for the back (12x12 inches), and one for the door (12x12 inches). Step 2: Assemble the Frame: Once you have your wooden pieces, it's time to assemble the frame. Start by attaching the sides to the bottom, using screws or nails to securely fasten the wood together. Make sure the connections are tight and the frame is square. Next, attach the back piece to the sides and bottom, again using screws or nails. This will create a three-sided box. Step 3: Install the Door Mechanism: The door mechanism is a critical component of the trap, as it's responsible for capturing the raccoon. A gravity-operated door is a common and effective choice for wooden traps. Install the door at the front of the trap, ensuring it moves freely and smoothly. You'll need to attach hinges to the top of the door and the top of the trap, allowing the door to swing downward. Step 4: Set Up the Trigger Mechanism: The trigger mechanism is what activates the door, trapping the raccoon inside. A common trigger mechanism involves a treadle, which is a flat plate inside the trap that the raccoon steps on. When the raccoon steps on the treadle, it releases a lever that allows the door to swing shut. Position the treadle in the center of the trap, ensuring it's stable and doesn't wobble. Connect the treadle to the door mechanism with a sturdy wire or cable. Test the trigger mechanism to make sure it's working properly. The door should swing shut quickly and securely when the treadle is stepped on. Step 5: Add Finishing Touches: Once the basic structure of the trap is complete, it's time to add some finishing touches. Inspect the trap for any splinters or sharp edges that could injure the raccoon. Sand down any rough spots and ensure all screws or nails are flush with the surface of the wood. You can also add a wooden floor to the trap to provide a more comfortable surface for the raccoon to stand on. This will also prevent the raccoon from digging its way out of the trap. By following these steps, you'll have a sturdy and effective wooden raccoon trap ready to deploy. Remember, the goal is to build a trap that's both functional and humane, ensuring the raccoon is captured safely and without unnecessary stress. A well-constructed wooden trap can be a valuable tool in managing raccoon populations around your home.

Baiting and Setting the Trap

Once your raccoon trap is built, the next crucial step is baiting and setting it correctly. The right bait and placement can make all the difference in whether you successfully capture the raccoon. Raccoons are opportunistic eaters, so you have a range of bait options to choose from. However, some baits are more effective than others. Sweet baits like marshmallows, corn on the cob, and fruit are often very appealing to raccoons. Canned sardines or wet cat food can also be effective due to their strong scent. The key is to choose a bait that's both enticing and safe for the raccoon. Avoid using poison or any bait that could harm the animal.

When placing the bait, put it towards the back of the trap, past the trigger mechanism. This will force the raccoon to fully enter the trap, increasing the likelihood of triggering the door. You can also create a bait trail leading to the trap to lure the raccoon inside. Scatter small pieces of bait along the path leading to the trap, encouraging the raccoon to follow the scent. Choosing the right location for your trap is just as important as selecting the right bait. Raccoons often follow the same routes and visit the same areas, so try to identify these paths and place your trap accordingly. Look for signs of raccoon activity, such as droppings, tracks, or disturbed garbage. Place the trap in a sheltered area, such as near a fence, under a deck, or along a wooded edge. This will make the raccoon feel more secure and less hesitant to enter the trap. Once you've baited and placed the trap, it's essential to set the trigger mechanism properly. Make sure the treadle is stable and the door swings shut quickly and securely when the treadle is stepped on. Test the mechanism several times to ensure it's working correctly. Remember, patience is key when trapping raccoons. It may take several nights before you successfully capture one. Check the trap regularly, ideally every morning, to ensure the raccoon hasn't been trapped for an extended period. By following these guidelines for baiting and setting your trap, you'll significantly increase your chances of humanely capturing the raccoon and resolving your wildlife issue.

Handling and Relocating a Raccoon

So, you've successfully built and set your raccoon trap, and now you have a raccoon inside. What's next? Handling and relocating a trapped raccoon requires careful planning and execution to ensure the safety of both you and the animal. The first and most important thing is to approach the trap calmly and cautiously. Raccoons can be unpredictable and may become aggressive when they feel threatened. Wear heavy gloves and protective clothing to prevent bites or scratches. Avoid making loud noises or sudden movements that could further stress the raccoon.

Before you even set the trap, it's crucial to research your local laws and regulations regarding wildlife relocation. Some areas have specific rules about where and how you can release trapped animals. In many cases, it's illegal to relocate raccoons to certain areas or without the proper permits. Contact your local wildlife agency or animal control for guidance on the legal requirements in your area. Once you're clear on the legal aspects, you need to choose a suitable relocation site. The ideal location should be at least five to ten miles away from your property to prevent the raccoon from returning. It should also be a natural habitat that provides food, water, and shelter for the raccoon. A wooded area near a stream or pond is often a good choice. When you're ready to relocate the raccoon, approach the trap slowly and cover it with a blanket or tarp. This will help calm the raccoon and reduce its stress. Carefully lift the trap and transport it to the relocation site in the back of a truck or SUV. Make sure the trap is secured so it doesn't slide around during transport. At the relocation site, position the trap on the ground and open the door. Step back and allow the raccoon to exit the trap on its own. Avoid making any sudden movements or noises that could scare the raccoon. Once the raccoon has left the trap, leave the area immediately. It's important to clean and disinfect the trap thoroughly after each use to prevent the spread of diseases. Use a solution of bleach and water to sanitize the trap and allow it to air dry completely. By following these guidelines for handling and relocating a raccoon, you can ensure a safe and humane outcome for both you and the animal. Remember, responsible wildlife management is key to coexisting peacefully with the animals in our environment.

Tips for Humane Trapping

Humane trapping is not just a method; it's a responsibility. When dealing with wildlife, it's crucial to prioritize the animal's well-being while also addressing your own concerns. Raccoons, like all living creatures, deserve to be treated with respect and compassion. Here are some essential tips for ensuring your raccoon trapping efforts are as humane as possible. First and foremost, choose a trap that is specifically designed for humane capture. Avoid using traps with sharp edges or small openings that could injure the raccoon. Opt for traps with smooth surfaces and adequate ventilation. The trap should be large enough for the raccoon to stand up, turn around, and lie down comfortably. Regularly checking the trap is paramount. Raccoons should not be left in a trap for extended periods, as this can cause significant stress and dehydration. Aim to check the trap at least twice a day, ideally in the morning and evening. If you capture a raccoon, relocate it as soon as possible. If you're unable to relocate the raccoon immediately, provide it with food and water inside the trap. A small dish of water and some dry pet food can help keep the raccoon comfortable until you can safely release it.

Avoid trapping raccoons during extreme weather conditions. Trapping an animal during very hot or cold weather can be dangerous and inhumane. If you anticipate extreme weather, postpone your trapping efforts until the conditions improve. When handling the trap, do so gently and calmly. Avoid shaking or dropping the trap, as this can frighten and injure the raccoon. Speak softly and move slowly to minimize stress. Consider the timing of your trapping efforts. Spring and summer are breeding seasons for raccoons, so trapping during these times could result in separating a mother raccoon from her young. If possible, avoid trapping during breeding season or take extra precautions to ensure that any captured raccoons are not nursing mothers. Be mindful of the release site. Choose a relocation area that provides suitable habitat for the raccoon, including access to food, water, and shelter. Avoid releasing raccoons in areas that are already heavily populated with raccoons, as this can lead to competition and stress. Educate yourself about raccoon behavior and ecology. The more you understand about these animals, the better equipped you'll be to trap them humanely. Learn about their diet, habitat preferences, and social behavior to make informed decisions about your trapping strategy. By following these tips, you can ensure that your raccoon trapping efforts are both effective and humane. Remember, responsible wildlife management is about finding solutions that benefit both humans and animals.

Conclusion

Building a raccoon trap can be an effective way to manage these resourceful creatures around your property, but it's crucial to do so responsibly and humanely. This comprehensive guide has walked you through the process, from understanding raccoon behavior to constructing different types of traps, baiting and setting them, and safely handling and relocating the animals. Remember, the key to success lies in a combination of knowledge, preparation, and compassion. By understanding the animal you're trying to trap, choosing the right materials and methods, and prioritizing the raccoon's well-being, you can resolve your wildlife issue in a way that's both effective and ethical. Whether you opt for a wire mesh trap or a wooden one, the principles remain the same: build a sturdy and safe trap, use an enticing bait, and set the trap in a location where raccoons are likely to frequent. Always check the trap regularly and handle captured raccoons with care. Before you begin any trapping efforts, be sure to familiarize yourself with your local laws and regulations regarding wildlife management and relocation. This will ensure that you're acting within the bounds of the law and respecting the natural environment. Trapping should always be a last resort, and it's important to consider other methods of raccoon deterrence, such as securing garbage cans, removing food sources, and sealing potential entry points into your home. However, when trapping is necessary, doing it humanely is paramount. By following the guidelines outlined in this guide, you can effectively manage raccoon populations while minimizing stress and harm to these fascinating creatures. Remember, we share our environment with wildlife, and it's our responsibility to coexist peacefully and respectfully.