How to Make a Snare for Racoons

When raccoons are found around people's homes and cabins, they quickly can become nuisances. They get into things like dog food and birdseed, and can tip over garbage containers, but they also can pose threats to domestic animals and children. Trapping is an effective means of removing problem raccoons. Trappers can use a variety of traps, although the people who want to trap the animals and relocate them often use a live trap. If they want to kill the raccoon, a snare is a better method.

Things You'll Need

  • 14-gauge wire
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Instructions

    • 1

      Locate an area raccoons use frequently. They are nocturnal animals, so plan to watch your yard after dark. Note where the raccoons come from, and then investigate the area further in the morning. Try to locate a trail they use by looking for droppings and footprints.

    • 2

      Cut a 4- to 5-foot piece of 14-gauge wire.

    • 3

      Form a quarter-inch loop in one end of the wire by twisting it around itself.

    • 4

      Create a large loop -- or snare loop -- by threading the free end of the wire through the quarter-inch loop.

    • 5

      Set the snare trap on a trail, if you located one. Otherwise, set it in a part of your lawn where raccoons seem to be especially active.

    • 6

      Attach the free end of the wire to a fence post, stump or tree. If no such items are available, drive a steel or wooden stake into the ground. Wrap the wire around the object five to seven times so it holds firm, even when a trapped raccoon thrashes.

    • 7

      Adjust the size of the snare loop by pushing the small loop along the wire. The snare loop should be about 5 inches in diameter. Bend the wire slightly so the snare loop stays in place.

    • 8

      Bend the wire so the bottom of the snare loop is suspended about 1 inch off the ground.

    • 9

      Check the snare daily. If the snare did not kill the raccoon, the best way to do so is to shoot it with a shotgun.