Raccoons, with their curious nature and dexterous paws, are common in Georgia. While these animals can seem harmless, they can cause significant damage to property and pose health risks to humans. If you’re dealing with a raccoon problem, knowing how to trap them safely is essential. One of the key components to successful raccoon trapping is using the right bait. In this blog, we’ll discuss what raccoons like to eat, the dangers they pose, the best baits for raccoon traps, and how to prevent these clever critters from returning.
What Do Raccoons Like to Eat?
Raccoons are omnivores with a varied diet. They have a keen sense of smell, which helps them find food in both natural and urban environments. Common foods that attract raccoons include:
- Fruits: Grapes, apples, peaches, and berries are irresistible to raccoons.
- Vegetables: Corn and peas are common raccoon favorites.
- Nuts and Seeds: Raccoons enjoy munching on nuts, including peanuts and sunflower seeds.
- Insects and Small Animals: In the wild, raccoons will eat insects, frogs, and small rodents.
- Human Food: Raccoons are notorious for scavenging through trash bins. Leftover meats, pizza, and bread are particularly appealing.
When baiting a raccoon trap, you’ll want to use food that will entice them into the trap while also ensuring that it’s positioned correctly to trigger the mechanism.
The Dangers Raccoons Pose to Humans and Property
Though raccoons may appear cute, they can be quite destructive when they enter human spaces. Below are some of the dangers they pose:
- Property Damage: Raccoons are excellent climbers and can easily find their way into attics, chimneys, and crawl spaces. Once inside, they can tear up insulation, damage wiring, and create nests, leading to costly repairs.
- Health Risks: Raccoons carry diseases that are transmissible to humans and pets, including rabies and leptospirosis. Additionally, their feces may contain roundworm eggs, which pose a serious health hazard if inhaled or ingested.
- Attacks on Pets: While raccoons tend to avoid confrontation, they can become aggressive if cornered or threatened. Small pets, particularly cats and small dogs, may be at risk of injury during encounters with raccoons.
The Best Bait for a Raccoon Trap
Choosing the right bait is crucial for successfully trapping a raccoon. The best bait will be something with a strong smell that appeals to their omnivorous palate. Here are some of the most effective options:
- Marshmallows: Surprisingly, raccoons are highly attracted to sweet foods, and marshmallows make excellent bait. They are inexpensive, easy to handle, and have a strong sugary smell that raccoons love.
- Peanut Butter: Peanut butter is a go-to bait for many wildlife trappers. Its thick consistency and strong aroma make it an excellent option for raccoon traps. You can smear it on the trigger plate of the trap or pair it with other foods like bread or crackers.
- Canned Sardines or Tuna: Raccoons are attracted to the pungent smell of fish. Canned sardines or tuna are highly effective in drawing them into traps. Place the can in the back of the trap to ensure they step on the trigger plate as they reach for the food.
- Cat or Dog Food: Many people use canned cat or dog food as bait. The strong smell and ease of accessibility make it a practical choice. However, keep in mind that this bait may also attract other animals, such as stray cats or dogs.
- Fresh Fruit: Grapes, apples, and bananas are popular choices when it comes to raccoon bait. Their strong, sweet fragrance is a great lure, especially when placed near the back of the trap.
How to Trap a Raccoon Safely
When using a raccoon trap, it’s important to follow safety guidelines. Here are a few tips for effective trapping:
- Choose the Right Trap: Opt for a live trap that is large enough to contain an adult raccoon but small enough to prevent injury. Traps that measure 32 to 36 inches in length are typically ideal for raccoons.
- Place the Trap Strategically: Place the trap near areas where raccoon activity is most noticeable, such as near garbage bins, gardens, or attics. Ensure that the trap is stable and won’t tip over when the raccoon enters.
- Check the Trap Regularly: Once the trap is set, check it frequently. Leaving a raccoon trapped for extended periods can be stressful for the animal and may increase the risk of injury.
How to Get Rid of Raccoons After Trapping
After successfully trapping a raccoon, it’s essential to handle it humanely and safely. In Georgia, there are regulations governing the release of trapped raccoons, so it’s wise to consult a professional wildlife removal company. Professionals can ensure that the raccoon is relocated to a suitable habitat away from residential areas.
Avoid handling the raccoon directly, as they can become aggressive or carry diseases. Most wildlife control companies offer relocation services as part of their raccoon removal programs, providing a humane way to get rid of raccoons.
Preventing Raccoons from Returning
Once you’ve removed the raccoons from your property, it’s essential to take steps to prevent them from coming back. Here are some effective prevention tips:
- Secure Trash Bins: Raccoons are drawn to garbage, so make sure all outdoor trash bins are securely closed with tight-fitting lids. Consider using bungee cords to secure the lids further.
- Eliminate Food Sources: Avoid leaving pet food outside overnight, and clean up any fallen fruit from trees in your yard. This will minimize potential food sources for raccoons.
- Seal Entry Points: Inspect your home for any gaps or openings that raccoons could use to enter, particularly around the roof, attic, and chimney. Use materials such as hardware cloth or metal flashing to block off these entry points.
- Install Motion-Activated Lights: Raccoons are nocturnal and prefer to operate under the cover of darkness. Installing motion-activated lights can deter them from getting too close to your home.
- Use Repellents: Some homeowners use commercial raccoon repellents or homemade solutions, such as spraying ammonia around the perimeter of their property. These strong smells can deter raccoons from returning.
Dealing with a raccoon problem can be a challenge, but with the right bait, trap, and preventive measures, you can effectively manage and remove them from your property. If you’re unsure about how to get rid of raccoons or need assistance, working with a professional wildlife control company is the safest and most efficient solution. A trained wildlife removal expert can help you trap raccoons humanely and provide ongoing prevention strategies to keep them from returning. Contact a wildlife removal service today to reclaim your property from these pesky invaders.