Raccoons have played a significant role in the history of trapping in North America. Native Americans and early European settlers used them for food and prized their fur for its warmth, texture, and durability. The earliest known trapping methods used snares, pits, and deadfalls. As European settlers arrived, they brought steel traps to accommodate the increased demand for raccoon fur when its distinctive pelt became fashionable.
During the peak of the fur boom in the early 1800s, the increasing value of raccoon pelts led to over-harvesting and an eventual decline in animal numbers. Both beaver and raccoon populations in the US significantly decreased as the fur trade exported large numbers of pelts to Europe.
More recently, the dwindling numbers of coon hunters and a prolonged period of low pelt prices have contributed to an increase in their numbers in many areas of the country. Some current estimates put raccoon populations at around 15 million animals. They have become a nuisance in many urban areas because of their habit of raiding garbage cans and other food sources.
However, talk to any turkey hunter about these cute ring-tailed masked bandits, and you will walk away with an entirely different perspective.Multiple studies have indicated raccoons are top predators of turkey nests, and many game biologists agree with turkey hunters that an abundance of raccoons can significantly affect poult numbers.
Understanding Raccoons
Historical accounts suggest raccoons were routinely kept as pets by several Southeastern tribes. Young raccoons are relatively easy to tame and can be very entertaining. They were likely kept for their companionship, intelligence, and usefulness in controlling pests.
They are known asProcyon lotorsin the scientific world, but others call them Ringtails, Trash-Bandits, Trash-Pandas, and Wash-bears. They are fascinating creatures that have readily adapted to dwelling in our modern urban environment but also inhabit swamps and most wooded areas.
Raccoons are most active at night as they forage for insects, vegetation, eggs, small animals, and carrion. They frequently travel alongside ditches, creeks, and rivers, searching for fish, mussels, and crawfish. Unsecured trash cans, chicken coops, and outside dog or cat bowls also receive frequent visits from local family units.
Raccoons create dens in hollow trees, rock crevices, abandoned buildings, barns, and sometimes attics. They are highly adaptable, and the dexterity within their five fingers allows them to create openings to raid stored food supplies that many consider varmint-proof.
They are generally solitary animals until mating season in late winter/early spring. Gestation takes about two months, after which 2-5 kits are born that stay with their mother for almost a year before venturing on their own.
Types Of Raccoon Traps
I spoke to Shawn Phillips recently about raccoon trapping and the most effective traps for raccoons. He and his father, Steve, have invested several decades in helping landowners and hunting clubs manage their predator numbers. Their business, Down South Trappers, has developed a product line that includes instructional DVDs, lures, and baits.
Dog Proof Raccoon Trap
Phillips said he uses Duke DP traps on 80-90% of his ringtail trapping jobs. He said their size, simplicity, and effectiveness make them an excellent choice because it reduces the risk of curious dogs getting ensnared. A small, welded stake on its bottom allows easy positioning.
Their design incorporates a metal trigger that runs through a slot into the tube. The end outside the trap has a notch that holds the spring retainer when set. Food or lure is positioned underneath the trigger, and a stout spring forms a steel loop inside the tube. When pulled upwards, the trigger releases the spring-loaded wire that encircles the arm and holds it securely.
Live Traps For Raccoons
Live traps are great for urban areas or around homes to remove a pet food bandit. The best live trap for raccoons islarge to extra-large, with alength of about 32-42 inches. This size ensures enough space for the raccoon to move around while trapped, reducing stress and injury.
- One-door traps-Many professionals prefer these because they offer better bait protection. They are also easier for chubby raccoons to enter.
- Two-door traps- Thesegenerally have a higher catch rate due to the dual entry points. They also allow the raccoon to see through the trap, which causes them to be less cautious. You can choose to set them with one or two doors open.
Here are a few models of live traps suitable for catching raccoons:
- Havahart Large 1-Door Trap: This heavy-duty model is ideal for large raccoons.
- Tomahawk Live Animal Trap:A well-made trap available in one or two-door models.
- Wildlife Control Supplies MP300 Professional Series Multi-Purpose Live Trap:This trap is also ideal for trophy raccoons.
Whatever trap you choose, following the manufacturer’s instructions is essential. Paying careful attention when setting the trigger will result in better catch rates.
Your localTractor SupplyandFarmer’s Co-Ops usually stock a variety of sizes suitable for raccoon trapping and relocation.
Raccoon Foot Trap
Water is like a magnet to raccoons. Creeks, culverts, and ditches are great locations for foothold traps. Trapping regulations require them to be deployed in shallow water to target wading animals and help avoid catching non-target animals. These leghold traps work well with baited pocket sets. The 1.5 size is ideal for the average-sized coon.
Best Raccoon Trap Bait
I wasn’t sure if I heard Phillips correctly when I inquired about the best bait for the Dog-roof traps he uses. “Fruit Loops,” he repeated. “They have a sweet tooth, and most any sugary cereal will do; I just prefer Fruit Loop cereal. You can also use a little squeeze jelly around the rim. And, marshmallows, they love marshmallows.”
Depending on your trap and placement, several other foods, such as peanut butter, fish, cat/dog food, and meat scraps, will attract raccoons to your set.
How To Trap A Raccoon
Setting several dog-proof traps around the perimeter of a corn feeder is an effective strategy for multiple catches. If creeks or ponds are present on a property, a combination of dog-proof and footholds along the water’s edge works well. Culverts provide a funnel, so setting traps at each end usually results in successful catches. Each comes with a short chain and swivel tied to a nearby tree with a piece of cable or anchored with a T-handled piece of rebar.
A baited live trap near bird feeders or pet bowls is a safe and effective method for homeowners. Creeks, ponds, or puddles of water attract raccoons in search of food. Position jaw traps in shallow water near the bank after creating a small horizontal hole slightly above the water level. Bait or lure placed into the back of the hole attracts raccoons and often results in a rear leg catch.
How To Set A Raccoon Trap
Dog-proof traps utilize a spring with an extended loop of wire bent to fit through the side into the pipe. Setting a DP trap can be done by using both hands to depress the spring wire and positioning the metal retainer into the slot in the trigger. A lever action tool to set the trap is also available.
Live traps use a pivoting floor pan attached to a metal rod that activates the trigger. The doors spring shut when the raccoon steps on the metal plate. Place the bait so the critter must walk onto the pan before reaching the food or lure.
Jaw traps should be firmly positioned and anchored on flattened, debris-free areas in shallow water near the bank or each end of log crossings. Trails and logs with distinctive raccoon tracks and scat offer potential trap locations.
Checking And Maintaining Traps
Raccoon trapping is an effective and ethical method of controlling predators when done correctly. Trapping regulations require regular trap monitoring so trappers can release non-target animals and avoid undue suffering. Traps should be monitored daily, and catch poles are required by law for professional trappers to aid in safely releasing any non-targeted catches.
Cleaning and maintaining the trigger mechanism is necessary to keep any trap in good working order. Dog-proof models tend to get caked with mud, so a periodic cleaning with a hose or pressure washer and repainting to prevent rust will keep them in good working order.
Different traps may have specific maintenance requirements, so always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions. Also, ensure you follow local laws and regulations regarding trapping in your area.
Final Thoughts On Raccoon Trapping
Raccoons can be charming creatures in the wild, but their presence around your home or farm can make them a nuisance. Whether creating a mess or causing damage to your home, these masked bandits can disrupt your tranquility and affect the turkey numbers on your property.
Raccoon trapping is considered the most effective removal method; however, it’s crucial to approach this task responsibly and humanely. By following ethical trapping guidelines or seeking help from a professional, you can successfully remove raccoons from your property, restore peace of mind, and hopefully, see more turkeys.
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