Raccoons (Procyon lotor) are medium-sized mammals, native to the forests of North America. They can be easily recognised by the gray color of the fur and the black and white details around the eyes and tail. They are not found naturally in some European countries, but on the American continent they are very numerous. Raccoons often enter people’s settlements in search of food and shelter. Thus, when we refer to raccoons, certain measures are required to prevent their access to homes and to remove them without harming them. 

Raccoons and signs of their presence

In order to be able to choose the optimal method for removing raccoons, we suggest you first identify the areas they frequent and the type of damage they cause. Among the damage that they can do to a certain property are:

• Breaking into homes, especially in the attic;
• Consumption of different crops;
• Consumption of fish from ponds;
• Scattered garbage;
• Shelters they build under the porch.

Raccoons trespass a certain property when they are in search of food. Thus, if you want to avoid them it is mandatory to take a series of measures, so that the respective space does not attract them in particular and their removal / expulsion is carried out efficiently. 

Among the possible measures that can be applied, we mention:

• Collecting the garbage properly and store it in sealed containers; 
• Collecting the fruits, nuts, bird food that have fallen to the ground;
• Cleaning food scraps, beverages or leftover pet food.

Therefore, after observing the habits of the raccoons and the areas where they caused damage, it is recommended to choose the appropriate method, depending on the situation. In order for their removal to have a high degree of efficiency, it is best to use multiple methods (repellents, traps).

Using raccoon traps

When you find a raccoon that has found shelter on a certain property it is best to use traps for removing him.

Using traps is a fairly easy method and it involves:

• Its correct positioning, using gloves;
• Using proper baits;
• Properly placing the trap while constantly monitoring it, as it is important not to allow for the raccoon to stay inside it for a long time.

To efficiently capture raccoons, place the traps in the places where the raccoons have caused the most damage or in the areas where they could live. In general, they prefer sheltered places, such as:

• House attics, warehouses and verandas
• Along the walls;
• In the area of fences;
• Tree hollows;
• Under certain constructions / structures.

At the same time, we recommend using baits inside the trap. Raccoons consume a wide range of foods, but prefer those high in fat and sugar. Foods with a high sugar content are best suited for use inside traps, as they will mainly attract only raccoons, not other types of animals. Therefore, you can use: meringues, melon slices, sweet corn, vegetables covered with honey or sugar, fish (fresh, smoked or canned), etc. 

In addition to choosing a suitable bait, an important aspect is its positioning in the trap, for an efficient capture. 

The correct placement of the bait for raccoons ensures:

• Complete entrapment of the raccoon – both the body and the tail;
• Rapid triggering of the trap when the animal enters;
• It will be placed according to the type of trap (1 entrance or 2 entrances).

Single-entry trap: it prevents the raccoons from reaching it from the outside by placing the bait towards its end, just behind the trigger, as far away from its walls as possible

Two-entry traps: Place the bait behind the trigger or in the ground, just below the trigger / trap or you can hang it from the top of the trap.  

In addition to that:

• Raccoons can turn the trap upside down in an attempt to reach the bait, so it is better to place a weight or a brick on top of it.
• It is advisable to place the traps on a straight, flat surface.
• It is recommended to wear gloves to avoid transferring the odor, as any traces of human odor can discourage the racoon from falling into the trap.

Placing the traps:

• Carefully place it in an open position, following exactly the instructions mentioned by the manufacturer, depending on the chosen trap;
• Before using a trap, make sure you understand and follow the legal provisions governing the capture of animals (racoons) using traps;
• Before placing the trap, remove potential food sources and seal the garbage containers so that raccoons are more interested in the bait.

Trap monitoring

After positioning the trap, it is important to monitor it carefully so that you can see the raccoon as soon as it is caught. Capturing a raccoon is a process that can take several minutes or several days, but once trapped, they can quickly become agitated, so they must be released as soon as possible. Never let a raccoon stay trapped for a long time. 

Raccoon – Capture

After the animal has been captured, it is recommended to use protective gloves when handling the trap, and it is recommended to keep it at a greater distance from the body. Also, for keeping the animal calm, it is better to cover the trap with a blanket. The subsequent relocation of the raccoon will be done at a certain distance, according to the legal provisions in force.

Use of repellents

To keep raccoons away from the property, it is recommended to use repellent products. Thus, after identifying the areas where they have caused damage and determining the habits they have in the yard, it is recommended to use a repellent appropriate to your requirements.

In addition to the regular application of repellents, certain measures are also very important, so that the respective space does not attract them in a special way. Respectively, it is recommended to remove the food / water sources, repair the fences / gates (so that it does not have an access way), wash the trash cans, close the windows, collect the garbage, etc.

Depending on the product, the repellents may be liquid, in the form of granules or powder. Use them according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

In conclusion, depending on the situation, when choosing a way to remove raccoons, it is advisable to choose the optimal methods (traps, repellents), in accordance with the legal provisions, without harming them.