How to Trap a Raccoon Humanely

A raccoon can be trapped free from harm and released by using a live-catch wire cage trap. This is a safe and effective method for removing nuisance raccoons from a city or urban area. In many states, raccoons are classified as game animals and are protected by game laws and regulations in regards to licensing, open seasons, and harvesting. The catching and relocation of a raccoon to a different area can require specific permits that must be in hand before the animal is taken. Check all laws pertaining to trapping and relocation of raccoons before trapping.

Things You'll Need

  • Live-catch trap, raccoon size
  • Bait
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place the live catch trap in an area frequented by raccoons. In an urban area this can be where they are actually seen traveling through a yard, or in a rural area where tracks indicate their travels.

    • 2

      Position the trap so the entrance door is completely available to the raccoon. A raccoon will willingly enter the cage due to his natural curiosity and hunger as long as the animal is unrestricted in entering the trap's door.

    • 3

      Set the trap by first lifting up the door panel. Reach into the cage and lift the floor trigger panel. Place the bottom end of the rod running alongside the outside of the cage under the short rod extending out of the floor panel and protruding outside the cage.

    • 4

      Place bait in the back end of the cage or in the bait compartment so the raccoon has to step on the floor trigger panel to reach the bait. When the floor panel is depressed, the side rod will release, letting the door close and trapping the raccoon inside the cage.

    • 5

      Check the trap daily to remove any animals trapped.