DIY Raccoon Trap: Easy Steps To Build Your Own

Hey guys! Are you tired of those masked bandits raiding your trash cans and wreaking havoc in your garden? Raccoons can be a real nuisance, but don't worry, you don't have to resort to calling animal control just yet. Building your own raccoon trap is a humane and effective way to deal with these critters. In this article, we'll walk you through the process step-by-step, so you can reclaim your property and keep those raccoons at bay. Let's get started!

Why Build Your Own Raccoon Trap?

Before we dive into the how-to, let's talk about why building your own trap is a great idea. First off, it's cost-effective. Commercial traps can be quite pricey, but you can build one yourself for a fraction of the cost using materials you might already have lying around. Plus, it's a satisfying DIY project! There's nothing quite like the feeling of accomplishment that comes from building something with your own two hands.

Humane raccoon removal is another big reason to consider building your own trap. When you build it yourself, you can ensure it's designed to be safe and comfortable for the raccoon. This is way better than using harmful methods that could injure the animal. By taking the DIY route, you're choosing a responsible approach to wildlife management. Plus, understanding the nuances of trapping helps you to implement best practices, such as checking the trap frequently and releasing the raccoon in a suitable environment away from your property. This ensures the animal's well-being and minimizes stress during the process. In addition to the humane aspect and cost savings, building your own raccoon trap provides a sense of control over the situation. You are not reliant on external services or products, and you have the flexibility to customize the trap to your specific needs and environment. This can be particularly beneficial if you live in an area with unique challenges, such as a large raccoon population or specific landscape features. Moreover, the knowledge and skills you gain from this project can be applied to other DIY endeavors, making it a valuable learning experience. So, building your own raccoon trap is not just a practical solution; it's also an empowering and educational one.

Materials You'll Need

Okay, so you're on board with the DIY trap idea. Awesome! Now, let's gather the materials you'll need. Here's a basic list to get you started:

• A large wire cage: This is the main body of your trap. You'll want one that's at least 32x12x10 inches to comfortably accommodate a raccoon. Look for heavy-gauge wire to ensure it's sturdy enough to hold the animal. You can often find these at hardware stores or online retailers. Make sure the mesh size is small enough that the raccoon can't reach through and potentially injure itself. The cage should also have a secure door mechanism that will lock once the raccoon is inside.
• Hardware cloth: This is a wire mesh that you'll use to reinforce the bottom of the cage and create a floor. It will prevent the raccoon from digging its way out and will also make the trap more stable. Choose a mesh size that's small enough to prevent the raccoon's paws from getting caught. Hardware cloth is available at most hardware stores and comes in various sizes and gauges. A heavier gauge will be more durable and resistant to damage from the raccoon's claws and teeth. When attaching the hardware cloth to the cage, make sure to use secure fasteners such as hog rings or zip ties to prevent any sharp edges from protruding.
• A trip mechanism: This is what triggers the door to close when the raccoon enters the trap. You can buy a pre-made trip mechanism, or you can build your own using wire and a metal plate. A common design involves a trigger plate that the raccoon steps on, which releases a spring-loaded door. The trip mechanism should be sensitive enough to be triggered by the raccoon's weight but not so sensitive that it can be accidentally triggered by wind or other factors. If you're building your own, experiment with different designs and materials to find one that works reliably. Test the mechanism thoroughly before setting the trap to ensure it functions smoothly and effectively. Also, consider incorporating a safety feature, such as a locking pin, to prevent the door from accidentally closing while you're setting the trap.
• A door with a secure latch: The door should be sturdy and able to withstand the raccoon's attempts to escape. It should also have a reliable latch that will keep it securely closed. Spring-loaded doors are a popular choice because they close quickly and securely. The latch mechanism should be designed to prevent the raccoon from opening it from the inside. Consider using a two-stage latch, where the door first clicks into a partially locked position before fully engaging the latch. This can help prevent the raccoon from forcing the door open with its weight or strength. Also, make sure the door is aligned properly with the cage frame to ensure a smooth and reliable closure. Regularly inspect the door and latch for any signs of wear or damage, and make any necessary repairs to maintain the trap's effectiveness.
• Bait: We'll talk more about bait later, but you'll need something to lure the raccoon into the trap. Canned tuna, marshmallows, and peanut butter are popular choices. The bait should be highly appealing to raccoons and have a strong scent that will attract them from a distance. Experiment with different baits to see what works best in your area. Consider the time of year and the raccoon's natural diet when choosing your bait. For example, in the fall, they may be more attracted to fruits and nuts as they prepare for winter. Place the bait strategically inside the trap to maximize the chances of the raccoon triggering the trip mechanism. You can also create a scent trail leading to the trap to further entice the raccoon.
• Tools: You'll need some basic tools like wire cutters, pliers, and gloves. Gloves are important to protect your hands from sharp edges and to avoid transferring your scent to the trap, which could deter the raccoon.

Step-by-Step Guide to Building Your Trap

Alright, you've got your materials. Let's build this trap! Follow these steps carefully:

Step 1: Assemble the Cage

If your wire cage comes disassembled, you'll need to put it together first. Follow the manufacturer's instructions. Usually, this involves attaching the sides, top, and bottom using wire clips or hog rings. Make sure everything is secure and there are no sharp edges sticking out. Safety is key here, so wear your gloves and take your time. Double-check all connections to ensure the cage is sturdy and won't fall apart when a raccoon is inside. Reinforce any weak points with extra wire or clips. Also, consider adding some padding to the inside of the cage to protect the raccoon from injury. This could be as simple as attaching some pieces of carpet or burlap to the wire mesh.

Step 2: Add the Hardware Cloth Floor

Cut a piece of hardware cloth that's slightly larger than the bottom of your cage. Fold the edges over to create a clean, smooth edge. Then, attach the hardware cloth to the bottom of the cage using hog rings or heavy-duty zip ties. Make sure it's securely fastened and there are no gaps. A solid floor is crucial for the raccoon's comfort and safety, so don't skimp on this step. The hardware cloth floor will also prevent the raccoon from digging its way out of the trap, ensuring it stays securely contained until you can relocate it. When attaching the hardware cloth, make sure to space the fasteners evenly to distribute the weight and prevent any sagging. Overlap the edges of the hardware cloth slightly to create a stronger connection. Also, consider adding a layer of bedding, such as straw or wood shavings, to the floor to make it more comfortable for the raccoon.

Step 3: Install the Door and Trip Mechanism

This is the trickiest part, but don't worry, we'll break it down. If you bought a pre-made trip mechanism, follow the instructions that came with it. If you're building your own, you'll need to attach the door to the cage so it can swing freely. Then, connect the trip plate to the door with wire. When the raccoon steps on the plate, it should release the door, causing it to swing shut and latch securely. Test the mechanism several times to make sure it works smoothly and reliably. Adjust the sensitivity of the trip plate as needed to ensure it's not too easy or too difficult to trigger. A well-designed trip mechanism is essential for the trap's effectiveness, so take your time and get it right. Consider adding a safety lock to the door to prevent accidental closures while you're setting the trap. Also, make sure the door closes quickly and completely to prevent the raccoon from escaping. Lubricate any moving parts to ensure smooth operation and prevent rust.

Step 4: Camouflage the Trap

Raccoons are smart creatures, so you don't want your trap to look too obvious. Camouflage it by covering it with branches, leaves, or burlap. You can also place it in a natural-looking setting, like near a bush or tree. The goal is to make it blend in with its surroundings so the raccoon doesn't suspect anything. Avoid using strong-smelling materials for camouflage, as this could deter the raccoon. Natural materials like leaves and branches are the best choice. Also, consider the surrounding terrain and try to match the trap's appearance to the environment. For example, if the trap is placed near a pile of rocks, you could incorporate some rocks into the camouflage. The more natural the trap looks, the more likely a raccoon is to enter it.

Step 5: Set the Bait

Now for the final touch: the bait! Place a generous amount of bait in the back of the trap, behind the trip plate. You can also create a trail of bait leading up to the trap to lure the raccoon in. Remember, canned tuna, marshmallows, and peanut butter are all good options. Make sure the bait is fresh and appealing to raccoons. Avoid using any baits that could be harmful to other animals, such as poison or antifreeze. The placement of the bait is crucial for the trap's success. Place it in a way that forces the raccoon to step on the trip plate to reach it. You can also use a small container to hold the bait, preventing the raccoon from grabbing it without fully entering the trap. Check the bait regularly and replace it if it becomes stale or attracts unwanted pests.

Baiting Your Raccoon Trap: What Works Best?

Speaking of bait, let's dive a little deeper into what raccoons find irresistible. Canned tuna is a classic choice, thanks to its strong, fishy smell. Marshmallows are another popular option – raccoons have a sweet tooth! And of course, there's peanut butter, which is both fragrant and tasty. When choosing your bait, consider what's readily available in your area. If there are a lot of fruit trees nearby, for example, a sweet bait like marshmallows might be particularly effective.

Variety is key when it comes to baiting your raccoon trap. Just like humans, raccoons have preferences and may become wary of the same bait if it's used repeatedly. Experimenting with different options can increase your chances of success. Consider rotating between canned tuna, marshmallows, and peanut butter to keep the raccoons interested. You can also try using a combination of baits, such as spreading peanut butter on a marshmallow or mixing tuna with dry cat food. The more appealing the bait, the more likely the raccoon is to enter the trap. It's also important to consider the time of year when choosing your bait. In the fall, raccoons are often looking for high-calorie foods to prepare for winter, so baits like nuts and seeds may be particularly effective. In the spring and summer, they may be more attracted to fruits and vegetables. So, by understanding the raccoon's natural diet and preferences, you can choose the most effective bait for your trap.

Another important factor to consider is the amount of bait you use. Too little bait may not be enough to lure the raccoon into the trap, while too much bait may allow the raccoon to eat without fully entering. A good rule of thumb is to use a generous amount of bait, but place it strategically so that the raccoon has to step on the trip plate to reach it. You can also create a scent trail leading to the trap by placing small pieces of bait along the way. This will help to guide the raccoon towards the trap and increase its curiosity. Remember to check the bait regularly and replace it if it becomes stale or attracts unwanted pests. Fresh, appealing bait is essential for a successful trapping experience.

Setting Your Trap: Location, Location, Location

Okay, you've built your trap and chosen your bait. Now, where should you put it? Location is crucial for trapping success. Look for areas where you've seen raccoons or their signs, like tracks or droppings. Common spots include near trash cans, gardens, and water sources. Place the trap on a level surface and make sure it's stable. You don't want it to tip over when a raccoon is inside.

Strategic trap placement is essential for maximizing your chances of catching a raccoon. Consider the raccoon's natural behavior and habitat when choosing a location. Raccoons are creatures of habit and tend to follow the same paths and routes. Identifying these pathways and placing your trap along them can significantly increase your success rate. Look for areas where raccoons are likely to travel, such as along fences, under decks, or near wooded areas. These locations provide cover and security, making them attractive to raccoons. You can also use visual cues, such as tracks and droppings, to help you pinpoint the best spots to place your trap. If you've noticed a particular area where raccoons are frequently active, that's a prime location for your trap. Once you've identified a potential location, take some time to assess the surrounding environment. Make sure the trap is placed on a level surface and is stable enough to prevent it from tipping over. You don't want to scare away a raccoon by placing the trap in an unstable or unnatural-looking spot. Camouflaging the trap with natural materials, such as leaves and branches, can also help it blend in with its surroundings and make it less conspicuous to raccoons.

Another important consideration when setting your trap is the accessibility of the location. You want to make sure you can easily access the trap to check it regularly and remove any captured raccoons. Choose a location that is relatively close to your home or property so you can monitor it frequently. It's also important to consider the safety of other animals and people when choosing a trap location. Avoid placing the trap in areas where pets or children may have access to it. You want to make sure the trap is set in a safe and responsible manner to prevent any accidental injuries. In addition to the specific location, the surrounding environment can also impact the effectiveness of your trap. For example, if you're placing the trap near a water source, make sure it's not in an area that is prone to flooding. A flooded trap will not only be ineffective but may also harm any captured raccoons. Similarly, if you're placing the trap in a wooded area, make sure it's not in a spot where it could be damaged by falling branches or trees. By carefully considering these factors and choosing the right location, you can significantly increase your chances of successfully trapping a raccoon.

After the Catch: Relocating the Raccoon

Congrats, you've caught a raccoon! Now what? It's crucial to relocate the raccoon responsibly. Check your local laws and regulations regarding wildlife relocation – some areas have specific rules you need to follow. In general, you should release the raccoon at least 5 miles away from your property, in a suitable habitat like a wooded area or park. Wear heavy gloves when handling the trap to protect yourself from bites and scratches. Approach the trap calmly and quietly to avoid stressing the animal. Open the door and let the raccoon run free. Do not attempt to handle the raccoon directly.

Responsible relocation is a key part of humane raccoon trapping. Once you've caught a raccoon, it's important to handle the situation with care and consideration for the animal's well-being. The first step is to check your local laws and regulations regarding wildlife relocation. Some areas have specific rules about where and how you can release captured animals. These regulations are in place to protect both the animals and the local ecosystem, so it's crucial to comply with them. In general, you should release the raccoon at least 5 miles away from your property to prevent it from returning. This distance is usually sufficient to disrupt the raccoon's established territory and encourage it to find a new home in a different area. When choosing a release location, look for a suitable habitat that provides the raccoon with food, water, and shelter. A wooded area or park is often a good choice, as these environments typically offer the resources a raccoon needs to survive. Avoid releasing the raccoon in an area that is heavily populated by humans or other animals, as this could put it at risk.

Before you approach the trap, make sure you're wearing heavy gloves to protect yourself from bites and scratches. Raccoons can be defensive when they feel threatened, so it's important to take precautions to avoid injury. Approach the trap calmly and quietly to avoid stressing the animal. Loud noises or sudden movements can frighten the raccoon and make it more likely to bite or scratch. Once you're close to the trap, open the door slowly and let the raccoon run free. Do not attempt to handle the raccoon directly or force it out of the trap. Give it space and time to leave on its own. If the raccoon is hesitant to leave, you can try tilting the trap slightly to encourage it to move towards the opening. However, be patient and avoid making any sudden movements that could scare it. Once the raccoon has left the trap, you can remove it from the area and clean it thoroughly to remove any scent or residue. This will help to prevent other raccoons from being attracted to the trap and will also reduce the risk of disease transmission. Remember, responsible relocation is not just about removing the raccoon from your property; it's about ensuring its well-being and protecting the local ecosystem. By following these guidelines, you can help to ensure a humane and successful outcome for both you and the raccoon.

Tips for Success

• Check your trap daily: Raccoons can get stressed if they're trapped for too long, so it's important to check your trap at least once a day, preferably in the morning.
• Clean your trap regularly: A clean trap is a more effective trap. Remove any old bait or debris and wash the trap with soap and water.
• Be patient: It may take a few days or even weeks to catch a raccoon, so don't get discouraged if you don't have immediate success.
• Consider the season: Raccoons are more active during certain times of the year, like spring and fall, so you may have better luck trapping them then.
• If you're not comfortable building your own trap or relocating a raccoon, contact a professional wildlife removal service: They have the experience and equipment to handle the situation safely and humanely.

Conclusion

Building your own raccoon trap is a rewarding project that can help you solve your raccoon problem in a humane and cost-effective way. By following these steps and tips, you'll be well on your way to reclaiming your property and enjoying a raccoon-free life. Good luck, and happy trapping!