Hi, it’s Nicholas back! As you already know – I have to deal with adorable yet infuriating critters, just like everyone else. Flying squirrels, groundhogs, feral foxes — over the years, I battled and exiled all of them. But none are as cunning as raccoons.
It’s tough to catch one without a good raccoon bait. The problem is their IQ — it’s terribly high. Younger raccoon generations aren’t as gullible as their ancestors. They learn new tactics of avoiding traps. They learn to risk less and be more cautious. They know that canned food can be dangerous.
So, you will need a very tempting offer to make them lose their guard. I’ve prepared my top 5 personal picks, so you know what to put in a raccoon trap. So, as they say in Pallet Town, let’s catch them all!
AuSable is a pellet-type raccoon trap bait. As far as I know, it’s used by some pest control specialists. The thing is, AuSable has a distinct odor.
I guess its mixture combines fish oil, intestines and some sort of cereals. At least, I noticed corn grains. And sweet corn is like a magnet to these little trash raiders. Once they smell/spot it, their munching instincts kick in. AuSable claims that it’s dog-proof. It must be formulated a bit incorrectly because I personally saw a dog feasting on a similar bait. So if you have a canine resident at your house, lock him in when laying the trap.
All in all, AuSable is the best bait to trap raccoons. It’s well-balanced. It’s not toxic or poisonous, so you don’t need to worry about your pets. And its smell is strong enough to attract even the pickiest coons.
Gitter Bait is the second best bait for raccoon trap on my personal preference list. Here’s why: even the cleverest and most watchful varmints can’t resist it. Seriously, it takes merely an hour or so for this bait to work its magic. (During the nighttime).
Simply lay a snack trail that leads to the trap, then put some inside. I guess the bait was designed specifically for raccoons. As soon as they enter your yard, the smell will trigger their natural gluttony instinct.
Frankly speaking, I don’t believe that almost any of the baits are dog-proof. Dogs, just like raccoons, are food opportunists. But I think that stray dogs won’t get a chance to savor this bait — raccoons will outpace them. Besides, I think it’s also a raccoon bait that cats won’t eat. It’s simply not their cuisine.
Coon Gritter is a universal ‘snack’. It can be used with DP and mechanical cage traps. Just follow the simple rules:
Lock your doggo in;
Set a trap for a night;
Place the snare as close as possible to the raccoon traffic.
So, if deraccoonization of your garden has been a goal for a while, this bait might do the trick. If raccoons are finally exiled, you can also use it to bait other animals: opossums, feral dogs, etc.
Our next item comes from the brand famous among hunters. Pete Rickard’s scents are used by enthusiasts and professionals to hunt deer, train dogs, disguise human presence, and so on.
LC260 is a vial filled with 118 ml. of pure fish oil. Do raccoons eat fish? Yes. They are known for their passion for fishy, be it fresh, canned, or smoked. But throwing away a whole can of tuna just to catch one little rascal… Sounds impractical.
So, instead, you can sprinkle LC 260 over a piece of bread, dog/cat food, or a biscuit. Fish oil has a very distinct smell — it attracts a rogue raccoon instantly.
Just avoid spilling it on your hands or clothes. The scent can be washed away, sure. But it’s annoying to smell like a salmon or tilapia anyway. A little downside I found is that cats also like the smell. But it’s the best coon bait when it comes to emulating natural fish odor.
Pros:
Cons:
strong smell;
economical;
made for professional hunters;
can be used as a vitamin supplement for a pet.
may attract cats.
4. Lenon’s Raccoon Super All Call Lure: One of the Top Reliable Raccoon Bait for Live Traps
Positive Action Assured At Both Dry Land And Water Sets
Target Pests: Raccoons
The brand behind this bait has some history. Lenon Lures have been making baits for all types of the game since 1924!
I’m not sure which components it includes. But there is a strong presence of smoked beans or something. Raccoons can be vegans too, and vegetables are one of their beloved treats. (Especially covered with honey).
What I like about this bait is that it’s durable. It doesn’t lose smell while in the open air for a long time. Even moody weather can’t spoil it much.
It’s not too pricey. But one jar won’t last for too long: 1-2- times max. At the same time, Lenon’s formula never seems to disappoint. And raccoons come for this bait like zombies for brains. So, it’s one of the top reliable raccoon bait for live traps, in my opinion.
Pros:
Cons:
brand reputation;
endures open air and weather;
appeals specifically to raccoons.
one jar per ambush.
5. Wildlife Research Hard-Core Raccoon Lure #1: Irresistible Scent
WRC is a company that specializes in producing baits for every animal: from elk to coyote. Their raccoon lure seems to be intriguing. It’s a scientifically mixed potion that has a strong and somewhat sweet scent. And as we know, raccoons have a sweet tooth!
Why I like Lure #1 is that it’s weather-resistant. Its structure is oil-based, which means no raindrops or snow can mess your bait up. Just sprinkle it over a piece of food and voilà. Besides, it doesn’t contain any artificial thickening agents.
So, its delicious, saccharine smell is perfect to bait raccoon. And one more thing: I haven’t tested it personally yet, but I think dogs will show zero interest in it.
Pros:
Cons:
noticeable aroma;
attracts sweet-craving coons;
water-resistant;
doesn’t trigger dogs.
pricier than other lures.
Buyer’s Guide and FAQ
How to Attract Raccoons?
Any raccoon trap food from my list can do the job. But if you’re worried about the venture’s success, then add some extra elements – a piece of rotten watermelon, a chicken egg, maybe some sweet corn.
Basically, it depends on your anti-raccoon budget. If you want to catch the pesky coon within 20 minutes — sprinkle some fish oil over the cooked fat meat. I guess this combo will overpower fear instincts of the most watchful little varmint.
If you have a big dog, make sure it stays inside the house during the ambush time. A bigger barking beast will scare the intruder away. Also, check that there’s no buzzing radio in your yard/garden, as raccoons are intimidated by the human voice.
What do raccoons eat… It’s a tough question, actually. It’s easier to name what they don’t like. Now and then, they are so desperate to fill their fluffy tummies, so they steal alligator eggs. So, if we’re talking about feral coons, then it can be literally anything.
They steal corn from the fields. They raid nests and nick freshly laid eggs. If you have a hen house and your area is populated by raccoons — your birds are certainly in danger.
Berries, apples, wild honey, sunflowers, carrots are also on their menu. So, your garden can be quite alluring to them.
In cities, raccoons gormandize on trash. The garbage pandas favor pizza leftovers, expired dairy, watermelon rind, sausage wrappers and even potato peels. So, basically, all of their food choices have a strong and saturated odor. It’s a universal rule to follow when ambushing one.
How to Make Raccoon Bait?
Actually, it’s easy to make one! As we know, coons react to smell. So here comes the ouch part — you will need to make something with an unpleasant tinge of rottenness.
The best homemade bait is fish-based. Be it a canned fishy or a freshly caught carp — it doesn’t matter. What matters is that before putting it in the snare, you should let it spend a day in the sun. Keep it away from your house as far as possible, though.
Cat or dog food can also do the trick. But only if the raccoon dwells somewhere near. Otherwise, its smell won’t reach his lair.
The most important part is to know where the raccoon traffic is. To identify it – think about where and when you usually see the little perpetrators.
The Great Baitsky
I hope my top 5 picks will solve your coon issue in no time. Use any from the list as they all are a safe choice. They aren’t dangerous for your pets. They don’t harm the animal. And at a small price, you will stop the raccoon invasion.
I will test and review more anti-raccoon products in the future, so stay tuned. If you have tried some from my today’s list or know any great alternatives — feel free to share your knowledge in the comments section!
References:
Raccoon (Indiana Department of Natural Resources): https://www.in.gov/dnr/fishwild/3364.htm
Potentially Dangerous Items for Your Pet (U.S. Food & Drug Administration): https://www.fda.gov/animal-veterinary/animal-health-literacy/potentially-dangerous-items-your-pet
I think raccoons are adorable. But if you live in your own house, especially somewhere near the woodlands, they can quickly become an issue. A cunning, stealing, property-damaging issue.
If you’re still deceived by how innocent these fuzzballs look, here are some reasons why you may need a live raccoon trap:
Rabies. According to CDC, some wild animals like raccoons are the top distributors of rabies in the US. The danger only increases if you have pets at home. If your doggo/kitty has interacted with an infected specimen — the whole family is at grave risk.
Property damage. Raccoons are notorious vandals. The house insulation, electric wiring, internet cable — nothing is saved from their teeth and paws.
Thefts. These little burglars can nick a doormat, cat food, or something shiny like a teaspoon. And even your fancy gadget isn’t safe.
Sanitary issues. They drop effluence in your attic, which can cause salmonella or leptospirosis. Let alone the awful smell.
Catching raccoons can prevent all this mess. And my top 5 picks will help you deal with the little bandits, without hurting neither them nor your budget.
OxGord offers a solid raccoon snare. We have a sturdy construction crafted from a heavy-duty steel alloy. Plus, as I have noticed, it’s rust-resistant. So laying the trap in the after-rain grass or freshly watered lawn is safe.
It’s a no-kill device. Besides, it doesn’t hurt a caught animal at all. So, you won’t have to worry about breaking the trapping law — some areas, like Washington, forbid using snares that can severely harm/kill a wild animal. (Check your local legislation first).
What I also like about this trap is that it’s really compact. Once delivered, it’ll be in a collapsed state. When it’s time to lay an ambush, just pull the thing over. When the hunt is finished, collapse it back and store it in your garage, attic, etc. This little fellow requires very little space.
OxGord is also spacey inside. With its 32 x 12 x 12 inches you can easily catch any trash-fattened critter. Even if it’s a Goliath among its furry brethren.
Other wild animals — stray cats, marmots, skunks, shrews, armadillos — are also an option. And sometimes, people use this trap to catch their own pets if they go AWOL. So, this is the best live trap for raccoons, in my opinion. Simple, reliable, affordable.
Pros:
Cons:
won’t kill yours or neighbor’s pets;
immune to rust;
easy to set;
needs little space.
a bit rickety secure rod.
2. Havahart 1045 Live Animal Two-Door Trap: The Best Two-Door Large Raccoon Trap
Special Features: Maximum resistance to rust and corrosion
Item Weight: 12.8 Pounds
Item Dimensions LxWxH: 36 x 10 x 12 inches
Target Species: Groundhog, Armadillo, Cat, Raccoon, Opossum
Coming from America, Havahart is a clever two-door trap. Here’s what I sincerely like about it. First, it has almost an ideal opening size. It doesn’t let the raccoon just enter the snare, grab the bait and say adios. No, escaping is virtually impossible with its tight mesh.
Second, thanks to the two-door concept, your arch-nemesis can enter from either side. Once the fluffy hooligan is in, the sensitive triggers go off instantly. You can catch the little trespassers within the first hour after setting Havahart up. If not within minutes!
Thanks to the roominess of the cage, you can also ensnare other animals. Havahart is vast and sturdy enough to handle an armadillo, porcupine, ferret, opossum, groundhog, etc. Even a panicking stray cat won’t bustle its way out of the trap — it’s that much solid.
The only nuance I had to deal with was the trap’s trigger. After a few catches you might have to reassemble it anew. As for the rest, Havahart’s large raccoon trap delivers full satisfaction for its money.
Pros:
Cons:
roomy interior;
impossible escape;
sturdy steel mesh;
easily transportable;
sensitive triggers.
trigger mechanism requires maintenance.
3. Duke Traps Heavy Duty X-Large Cage Trap: The Best Heavy Duty Raccoon Trap
X-Large is the #1 heavy-duty raccoon trap on my personal list. At least so far. The thing is, it’s not just a snare — it’s a whole ‘prison cell’ that a naughty critter won’t be able to escape.
The narrow mesh is presumably made from stainless steel. At least it’s not soft and bendable like aluminum — a grown and muscly raccoon has all chances to stretch aluminum wires and skedaddle. X-Large isn’t that case, though.
X-Large may be costly, yes. But it’s the best contraption for detaining large animals. And by large I mean really large — wild, adult coons can be as heavy as 35-40 lbs. Hence, the trigger mechanism mostly reacts to grown animals. If there’s a baby raccoon exploring your manor, there is an 85% chance that the trap may fail.
As for the rest, I’m really satisfied with Heavy Duty X-Large. It’s reliable, big, and there’s no chance for an animal to perform a prison break. Just watch out for the small bait door on top of the cage. Make sure it’s safely locked before the operation ‘Raccoon” begins.
Zeny Live Animal Cage is an anti-harm and no-kill snare. It’s a universal tool that can disarm various critters: from rogue squirrels to feral cats. Raccoons are no exception. Thanks to the sensitive triggers, an animal will be snared instantly.
It’s easy to set up — it takes just about 2 minutes. Two more minutes to lay the bait. And when you’re done with banishing trash pandas from your garden or home, you can fold it flat and put away for later.
The trigger pedal is located nearly in the middle of the cage. So, an experienced raccoon won’t snatch the bait and leave like nothing’s happened. Driven by the appetite, the animal can’t avoid imprisonment.
A nifty bonus: there’s a metal plate that protects handlers of the trap. This way, you’ll be protected from vengeful claws of the displeased and scared creature. Even stray cats with their long paws can do you no harm.
All in all, Zeny Live Animal Cage is a reliable workhorse. It is affordable, easy-to-use and quite stout. Plus, there’s no way for a fluffy bandit to avoid detention.
Pros:
Cons:
protection plate;
clever construction;
sensitive snare trigger;
universal;
compactness.
some raccoons can lift the trap’s lock pin.
5. Amagabeli Humane Live Animal Trap: Professional Choice
Among other raccoon cage traps, Amagabeli is a pro’s tool. First of all, its longevity will suffice you for years. The trap doesn’t lose its shape after a few dozens of animals caught thanks to the durable steel alloy. Plus, it’s immune to corrosion — an important nuance if you live in a highly humid area.
It gets no internal damage from a scared creature’s bustle. Besides, it has smooth insides, so a panicking raccoon won’t hurt himself by accident. There’s a baited hook attached to the ceiling. It reacts to being pulled. But no cases of an animal getting hurt have been reported so far. So, I guess it’s safe.
The trigger itself can be regulated. So, you should set it cautiously. Otherwise, it may be too hard/too easy for a raccoon to set it off.
The Amagabeli’s construction is my favorite part, hands down. Meanwhile, many box traps for raccoons get crippled upon the first encounter, this one seems invincible. Even grown-up animals can’t damage it. So, this trap may save you a few bucks. And a tall handler, unreachable for an imprisoned raccoon, protects you from scratches.
Pros:
Cons:
virtually unbreakable;
immune to corrosion;
will last for a long time;
safe handler;
raccoons can’t escape.
pricier than other models.
Buyer’s Guide and FAQ
Now you know which raccoon traps can handle the job. My selection includes only humane snares. In other words, non-lethal contraptions that do not hurt a caught critter. In fact, such traps are used by activists who help homeless animals get medical treatment and shelter.
So, by using one of them, you will achieve multiple goals:
A cocky raccoon will finally be caught.
You will improve your karma by not hurting the fluffy guy.
You can use it to catch other animals: weasels, feral cats, lawn dogs. (Even your own pets).
Plus, these traps are sturdy enough to last for a long time. So, should the raccoon invasion happen once again — simply take it out of your storage room and begin the merciful hunt.
FAQ
What to Do If Raccoon Keeps Stealing Bait From Trap?
Regularly this issue occurs if your humane raccoon trap isn’t big or roomy enough. Switch to a bigger snare, like Havahart or Amagabeli. The thing is that in a small trap it’s easier for a raccoon to snatch the food and run away — blame it on their long paws.
But what if you have a trap the size of the Winter Palace, but still no result? Then the trigger mechanism must be investigated. Make sure it’s not defunct, broken or set improperly.
Raccoons are attracted by anything that smells like food. One of the best raccoon baits is marshmallows — raccoons are hypnotized by them. Other bait choices may include chicken bones, cat food, raw meat, pig lard, meat scraps — anything edible that has a distinct odor. Chicken eggs also attract them.
Note: Don’t forget to put a bowl of water inside the cage.
How to Catch a Raccoon Without a Trap?
Well, you could hammer together a makeshift trap. But I strongly recommend you don’t. Raccoons only look cute and friendly. In reality, they are opportunistic food scavengers armed with sharp teeth and claws.
Plus, many of them transfer infections and parasites. So, trying to save a few dollars may take a negative toll on your health. But if you want to try your luck anyway, see below.
How to Make a Raccoon Trap?
To improvise a trap, you will need:
Bait;
A few bricks;
A garbage can;
One wood plank;
Something similar to a picnic table.
Then:
Base. Put the can to the end of the picnic table. Secure it with a couple of bricks so it won’t tip over.
Water. Fill 1/3 of the can with water from a garden hose.
Trigger. Put the plank on the table, so one of its ends hangs over the can. But make sure it stays on the table (find the plank’s gravity center).
Final touch. Put the trap on the overhanging end. Do it after the sunset only. Otherwise, birds and other little animals can raid your contraption.
And voilà: the makeshift trap is ready. Check it in the morning to see if the raccoon has been caught. If the operation is a success, transport the can a few miles away and release the wet trespasser.
However, it’s not the best way to trap a raccoon. First, the closest park or forest may be 10 miles away from your house. Do you really fancy transporting a whole garbage can with water and a grown raccoon inside? Sounds too painstaking if you ask me!
Second, it’s not the safest method. There’s no guarantee it’ll go the way you’ve planned it. And even if it does, a scared raccoon may turn into a ferocious little devil trying to protect himself. In turn, this may cause some serious injuries and health damage.
So, if you’re still determined to catch a raccoon this way — do it at your own risk.
Simming Up
If you have used any of the traps from my top 5 picks, don’t be shy and share your story. Your unique knowledge and insight can many people solve their raccoon problem. Plus, it’s always cool to learn from first-hand experience.
I regularly review and test home and gardening appliances, including traps and other pest control equipment. Do you have any questions? Would you like to share some tips or get a piece of advice? Leave a comment in the section below!
References:
Raccoon (Indiana Department of Natural Resources): https://www.in.gov/dnr/fishwild/3364.htm
Wild Animals (U.S. Department of Health & Human Services): https://www.cdc.gov/rabies/location/usa/surveillance/wild_animals.html
Raccoon Nuisance Problems (Connecticut’s Official State Website): https://portal.ct.gov/DEEP/Wildlife/Nuisance-Wildlife/Problems-with-Raccoons
Raccoons are frequent visitors to residential areas where trash is abundant and — well, nutritious. Despite being initially native to North America, these sweet-looking animals are also present in a number of European countries these days. They have become notorious for their annoying guest habits, ravaging people’s gardens, and rummaging through trash cans in search of food.
Apart from being extremely messy, the furry visitors can pose a threat to their human hosts and their pets. Whenever a raccoon feels like you are treating it, it will get aggressive, probably trying to bite and scratch you. Like many wild animals, coons spread rabies, a highly deadly viral disease.
Colton’s Natural is a US-based pest control product brand that focuses on finding plant-based alternatives to the conventional chemicals that most people use to keep their home and yards pest-free. Every item included in the range is completely safe for humans, including kids, and pets.
This small animal repellent spray targets raccoons, squirrels, skunks, and other common troublemakers. Its key active ingredient is peppermint oil, which isn’t dangerous or harmful at all but simply doesn’t smell good to the pests. It’s also safe to use around pets, children, and even nursing mothers.
You can use the product both indoors and outdoors, spraying it liberally on dry surfaces for better absorption. The manufacturer doesn’t promise instant effect. Instead, the coon might come to visit you a couple more times, but it’ll soon realize that it’s time to find another place to eat.
What I like about this all-natural spray is that it’s a really effective coon repellent. Besides, it smells nice to us humans (thankfully, we don’t have half of the smelling ability that some animals possess).
Pros:
Cons:
pet and kid safe;
humane;
extremely effective;
smells good;
you can get your money back if you find the item ineffective (which is unlikely).
not inexpensive.
2. Clever Sprouts Dog Cat Repellent: Best Ultrasonic Raccoon Repellent
No products found.
This ultrasonic animal deterrent features a passive infrared sensor to detect approaching dogs, cats, foxes, and more. As soon as a stray or wild animal comes near it, the sensor triggers a built-in speaker to produce a tone that’s inaudible to humans but prevents the furry creature from getting closer.
This is an eco-friendly and humane solution that’s absolutely safe to use near children (although your pets might react to the signal too). It also features a solar battery, making it a green and budget-saving option.
The repellent has a simple weatherproof design that is easy to install. You can combine several of these items in your property as it has a detection radius of about 8 to 9 meters. The only problem I faced while using this product is that the sensor can be triggered by swinging branches when the weather’s extremely windy.
Pros:
Cons:
safe for animals and humans;
humane;
quite effective in repelling raccoons;
environmentally friendly, solar-powered battery;
affordable price.
can be triggered by a strong wind.
3. Bonide (BND2362) Repels-All Animal Repellent: Best Granular Raccoon Repellent
Bonide Products, Inc. is a long-established US company that celebrated its 90th anniversary in 2016. It offers an extensive range of pest control products for indoors as well as outdoors, attaching special importance to garden and law protection.
Repels-All is a granular formulation designed to repel raccoons, skunks, squirrels, mice, and other common species. It has a natural formula consisting of egg solids and garlic oil, and I must admit that it has a very intense, unpleasant smell that stays for some time.
The granules are easy to place — you just sprinkle them across the perimeter and add a little water if no rain is expected. According to the label, this product is safe to use in children’s play areas and near pets. However, some cats and dogs might be deterred by the smell, too. This is a long-lasting solution that will keep your grounds coon-free for up to 60 days unless it’s raining heavily.
Pros:
Cons:
safe for pets and kids;
humane;
effective;
biodegradable and eco-friendly;
easy to use and long-lasting.
harsh smell that might deter pets.
4. Repels-All Animal Repellent Concentrate: a Humane Yet Effective Coon Repellent That Will Last
This is another product by Bonide, based on similar ingredients but formulated into a liquid concentrate that you can use to prepare spray as needed. Just like the previous item, it relies on irritating smell (and taste) to chase away a broad range of animals without harming their health.
Repels-All Animal Repellent Concentrate comes in two sizes, including a money-saving 3.8 L bottle. Before spraying, mix 1 volume of the concentrate with 7 volumes of water. You can use a sprayer or a spray bottle for application. It should be noted, however, that the resulting liquid tends to clog the sprayer.
As is the case with many smell-based products used to deter nuisance animals, this concentrate can also repel your pets. It does smell intensely for some time, but I couldn’t sense the odor as soon as the liquid dried.
Although you can use the resulting spray to keep raccoons away from your vegetable garden, avoid applying it to the plants directly. Instead, use it around the patch. Each application is expected to last for about two months.
Pros:
Cons:
safe for pets and kids;
humane
effective;
biodegradable and eco-friendly;
long-lasting.
requires mixing;
may clog the sprayer.
5. Nite Guard Solar NG-001 Predator Control Light: an Effective Night-Time Raccoon Deterrent
Mother Earth Friendly. Safe for People, Pets & Livestock
Item Weight: 3.2 ounces
Product Dimensions LxWxH: 2.5 x 2.2 x 1.2 inches
Target Pests: All Animals That Hunt or Feed at Night
Nite Guard, LLC is a family-owned business based in the United States that focuses on keeping predators off your ground after dark. What Nite Guard Solar does is simply flash a red light, which animals perceive as a threat. The mechanism is not triggered by a sensor; the flashing goes on throughout the night, turning off automatically at dawn. This electronic raccoon deterrent is completely safe for humans as well as animals, including the ones it’s meant to repel.
The product comes in a small black weatherproof casing which looks much like a security camera, thus potentially deterring human intruders, too.
Two basic mount options are available, cluster and perimeter since a single control light would only work in one direction. The manufacturer emphasizes that Nite Guard Solar can be used to keep your poultry and livestock safe from nocturnal predators. Using electronic raccoon deterrents in the garden is also a good idea since they have the nasty habit of uprooting plants.
Although they are nocturnal animals, raccoons can be active during the day if they need extra forage. This means that the control light alone might prove inadequate if raccoon infestation is massive in your area. However, it works perfectly well at night, which will solve the problem for most users.
Pros:
Cons:
safe for pets and kids;
humane
effective;
eco-friendly & solar-powered;
an affordable and long-lasting solution.
doesn’t work during the day.
Buyer’s Guide
As you have probably noticed, approaches to raccoon control differ greatly. The range is so wide that it might be confusing if you are new to the issue. That’s why I’m offering you a guide on how to repel raccoons in a safe and humane way. This section doesn’t cover control methods such as fencing and raccoon traps since they don’t fall in the repellent category. Instead, we’ll focus on the many things that coons find annoying and/or menacing and thus try to avoid.
There’s a broad scope of products on the market that deter furry visitors due to their pungent smell and, sometimes, taste. Common flavors include hot peppers like cayenne and jalapeno, onions, peppermint oil, and cloves. These are widely used to produce natural, non-toxic deterrents.
They aren’t supposed to harm the guest except by causing mild irritation of its air passages and preventing it from feeling at home in our property. Whatever ingredients you prefer, the mix can be formulated into a spray, powder, or, less commonly, granules.
Mothballs are another odorous product that might repel a raccoon, but they can be extremely toxic and aren’t recommended if you have children or pets that can ingest them.
As an alternative, ammonia can be used as an effective DIY solution as it smells very much like urine. Despite their messy habits, raccoons are clean animals and are generally suspicious of human and animal discharge. However, ammonia is a toxic substance that can have immediate health effects when ingested or inhaled in large amounts, so using it to repel raccoons requires certain precautions. The good thing is that it’s extremely cheap.
For those who aren’t ready for the strong smell that most repellents emit, electronic repellents can be a preferable solution. These include two major categories, ultrasonic noise generators, and blinking lights. The former usually rely on motion sensors to detect an animal approaching and then generate a tone that most humans can’t hear but raccoons dread.
The latter category is much smaller. The intuition behind it is that most nocturnal animals don’t want to be watched doing whatever they do, and red blinking light makes them feel like they’ve been caught in the act. Such devices are chiefly automatic and make sense only in the dark.
It’s true, however, that most raccoons won’t come to ravage your garden in broad daylight, so this can be an effective option provided that you purchase enough devices to ensure all-round protection.
Motion-triggered sprinklers are another way to deter raccoons without doing too much harm. They also have a built-in motion sensor that works 24/7 as is completely automatic. One downside is that it most probably will react to people as well. It might also be a good idea to use several sprinklers in larger yards.
If you are looking for a gadget to keep away the furry bandits, make sure the model you’re considering is fit for your climate. The housing has to be waterproof to withstand rain and snow. Another factor to take into account is that some motion sensors can be triggered for no good reason when the weather is windy. I also recommend choosing a solar-powered model over conventional batteries since it’s eco-friendlier and zero maintenance.
FAQ
What Scent do Will Keep Raccoons Away?
Capsaicin (made from chili peppers), essential oils like citronella, clove, and peppermint as well as garlic are known to get on raccoons’ nerves. They also hate the smell of urine, which you can imitate by using ammonia (see below) or actually bring about if you can get a predator’s urine.
How to Repel Raccoons with Ammonia?
You will need ammonia (look for it on the web or at a home hardware store) and some rags. Soak the rags in ammonia, then place them near your trash can and in other places frequented by coons. You’ll need to repeat the procedure in some time when the rags dry.
What Is a Natural Deterrent for Raccoons?
Natural repellents can be plant-based with pepper extracts and essential oils. Other options include predator urine and ammonia. Besides, raccoons are known to be deterred by loud music or noise, although chances are high that your neighbors won’t like it either.
Do Mothballs Keep Raccoons Away?
They do, but mothballs are clearly not the best raccoon deterrent since the effect is not really reliable. More importantly, mothballs usually contain naphthalene and, therefore, are toxic if ingested (consider this in case you have little kids or pets in your home). Inhaling naphthalene isn’t healthy either, which brings about the dilemma with mothballs: they are either harmful or ineffective.
Raccoon Control Takeaways
There are three key options when it comes to keeping raccoons away without harming them: offensive smells, blinking light, and motion-triggered devices like sprinklers and ultrasound deterrents.
When shopping for electronic raccoon repellent, make sure you purchase enough to provide full coverage of your property as one sprinkler/speaker is rarely enough. These solutions are usually safe for humans of all ages as well as pets.
Smell-based deterrents are usually affordable and easy to use. However, most odors that repel raccoons also appear repulsive to people and their pets. This is especially true with urine and ammonia, while essential oils are generally less overpowering.
What methods of raccoon control have you tried so far? Did they work?
References:
Raccoons (Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of California): http://ipm.ucanr.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn74116.html
This ever-smiling face may fool you into considering it friendly. Okay, a well-trained pet raccoon (if you get one) may become a real friend. But a wild raccoon is not such a good fellow; in fact, it has everything it takes to spoil your life.
How to Know a Raccoon
The most common in the U.S. is the so-called North American raccoon. It has a black “bandit mask” upon its face and a banded tail; believe me, it’s hard to miss it and confuse a coon for a dog. Usually, its weight is up to 30 lbs (sometimes more), the length is up to 2 feet, plus a tail that’s almost a foot long.
It’s omnivorous, so you never know what food may attract one. Raccoons have been spotted throughout North America.
Potential Raccoon Dangers
In real life, raccoons are not as cute as they are on pictures. In my countryside childhood, I often saw them stealing chickens – or rather, I saw no coons and missed chickens right until we caught one red-pawed coon. But even if you’re not into breeding, they can do various sorts of harm, from attacking your dog to throwing upside down your trash containers.
In addition, there is a possibility they spread various infectious diseases, including rabies – it’s already a reason to keep them at a distance.
Having one in your attic, though, is probably the second worst thing about them. Just imagine having a couple of them with all their family life, quarrels and romance heard all over the house. A coon soap opera, you can’t turn off with a remote, with all the consequences listed above. It’s aggravated by their nocturnal lifestyle, making it harder for you to sleep next to the coon party.
Maybe a pet raccoon can be just as nice and cute as those on Internet memes. Never had one. A raccoon kept away is also a good raccoon. But not in here, please.
Raccoon Signs
If a raccoon is already in, you will soon know. But do you have to hear them quarrel in your attic at night to tell there are raccoons? There are other ways to know they’re around.
Footprints. Maybe you’ll feel what Robinson Crusoe felt on his island on recognizing there are dangerous guests. A raccoon footstep looks like a human one, due to its unusual paws.
Droppings and scratches on trees and woodpiles. Coons are not that tall, so these signs are to be seen at the bottom, not near the crown of trees.
Mess where you don’t expect it. Coons eagerly throw trash around to see if there’s anything edible in the container. They are also a bit awkward (though fast), so you can see things thrown around in your yard.
Raccoons. Spot one in your area, and that’s the sign there’ll be others.
As they are mostly nocturnal creatures, you can also rely on night vision cameras if you have one or more to watch your household. If you see raccoons detected by motion sensors more than once, it’s time to take measures.
The Best Way to Keep the Raccoons Away: Sound, Smell and Two Locking Traps
So let’s see how to get rid of raccoons in the yard. There is only one limitation in all the various ways I’ve reviewed: neither of them is lethal. Shooting them is illegal in some states (so don’t rush to your favorite rifle), and if you happen to live where it’s legal and still search for a better way, there’s no need to tell you what your neighbor knows better.
Frankly speaking, I’m not the one to faint on seeing a dead animal. But if anyone dreams of the Final Solution to the Raccoon Question, it’s not me, no.
Well, but what should one do to avoid this furry disaster? The best thing is to keep them away. There are different measures to be taken, depending on how common raccoons are in your area. A single villain is easier to catch and deport. If they are so numerous that make you feel like an invader, you better opt for some mass repelling method.
If you have made up your mind on how to deal with raccoons, here are the methods that cover most possibilities. Of course, you can do some more profound research and find analogs more suitable in your particular situation. But these are the basics to consider when you feel too tired to tolerate their insolence.
As I have said, you are to choose how to keep raccoons away from your house, first of all, according to their number. A single stray coon takes a single effort. But if the area is coon-infested, it’s time for massive attacks. Here are the most interesting options I found to keep raccoons off deck and not to waste too much effort and time.
How to Get Rid of Raccoons
Here is a guide on raccoon eradication. These steps are the common instruction on getting rid of any invasive species, so they are good on these. To make raccoons leave, take the following common measures.
Step 1: Survey Your Property
You need to find signs of their presence. More than that – your mission is to make sure they have been here, even if at the moment the beasts are away.
Step 2: Find the Entry Points
If there is no raccoon village within your property, there must be ways they get in and out. These spots are to be found and protected. These might be holes in the fence, doors for cats and dogs, or whatever vulnerabilities.
Step 3: Seal Off Your Home and Yard
It’s the first rule. Close all the vulnerabilities, so these little robbers can’t get in or out unnoticed. Pay special attention to pet holes. In fact, it’s not bad to have them all out. But you need to be sure, so you are in control of the process.
Step 4: Get Rid of Raccoons
When you have stopped the further invasion, you need to get rid of those raccoons you still have inside your property. There are many ways to do it. If you need to catch them – to bring out, traps and baits are the best way. If there are open spots you cannot protect physically, you can make them unattractive for raccoons with chemical or ultrasonic repellents.
There are plants you can grow outside as a natural raccoon repellent. They include peppermint, garlic, and suddenly pumpkins and cucumbers. But the efficiency of these plants is way lower than that of special repellents. So you better have cucumbers in your greenhouse, for you to eat them rather than for raccoons to avoid.
Some also recommend ammonia bombs – tennis balls soaked in ammonia, smelling intolerably bad for coons. The problem is, they don’t always work, and the smell is also bad for humans and pets.
The Best Methods of Keeping Racoons Away
Researchers say coons have become urban inhabitants already, but it doesn’t mean you have to live with these neighbors. If you’re not the one to tolerate the uninvited guests, and the smile will not melt your determination, here is weaponry you can use on them. None of these is meant to be lethal (unless you misuse it). And all of these are reported to be efficient. Choose yours!
1. OxGord Live Animal Trap 32” – the Best Raccoon Trap
Trapping a raccoon and then letting it out far from your place is a good method if you only need to do it once. It just takes a trap that can keep the animal inside until you come and take it from there.
The principle is simple. You install the trap where the raccoon is expected and load it with bait. As the raccoon gets attracted by the bait, it gets in, and the door closes. The coon is trapped, and you are free to release it somewhere far. The trap has a handle so that you can move the prisoner right in it.
I recommend this model by OxGord, optimal for raccoons. 32″ is probably the screen of your old T.V. you have put into the kitchen now. When it’s a trap size, though, it’s more impressive. It can hold even a big strong raccoon, as it struggles to get out of there. The wire it’s made of is rust-resistant, so you can leave it in the grass, in the dirt, wherever you can mask it properly.
If there are many of them around, though, it will take too much time and effort to install traps, remove raccoons from them, and then take them away or pass to authorities. Good as a single act, a trap is worse against an invasion.
What else you should know about traps is what they oblige you to do after catching a raccoon. Depending on the laws of your state, you may be free to do whatever you want to that coon (eat, keep as a pet, sell, and so on); in the District of Columbia, though, it’s your duty to drive the caught raccoon at least 25 miles away from city limits.
Special Features: Maximum resistance to rust and corrosion
Item Weight: 12.8 Pounds
Item Dimensions LxWxH: 36 x 10 x 12 inches
Target Species: Groundhog, Armadillo, Cat, Raccoon, Opossum
If you prefer catching raccoons with a trap, but there are many of them around, a two-door trap would be a better solution. Just install it on the path you have spotted and wait, no matter where the guest comes from. You can come from any side you like, but you can never leave! That’s the meaning of two-door construction: it increases the chance the animal gets in – but not out.
The principle of this trap is, though, similar to the previous one. Just load it with the bait and leave it open on the path. As the raccoon is attracted by the bait, it gets in, triggers the mechanism, and the door gets locked. It happens to the other door soon. Hardly will it catch two of them simultaneously (though if they sync their invasion, why not?)
This model is good enough for catching raccoons, as a regular one is too big to slip through and too small to breakthrough. If there are other animals around (like, say, big groundhogs), it may be a stress test for the device. To attract only raccoons or animals of similar size, select the bait properly, and set it in the right place.
It’s probably the best way to get rid of raccoons if there aren’t many. One by one, they will be caught, and you’ll just take them away. If they live in the wild in your area, though, it’ll be a Sisyphean climb.
Pros:
Cons:
sturdily built;
easy to set up and load;
chances you catch the animal are higher with it;
endures aggressive environment;
doesn’t harm the animal.
more expensive than one-door traps;
works only for animals of a certain size and weight.
3. AuSable® Brand Dog Proof Trap Coon Bait – the Best Raccoon Bait
As you understand, it’s not a standalone method, but rather a necessary addition to the traps reviewed above. A bait will drive the raccoons in with its tasty smell, as they touch it, they shut the doors behind them. The bait, though, is attracting other animals as well. So it should be specific, and in no way must it be poisonous to even any of them.
As for this bait by AuSable (a trademark of PcsOutdoors), it’s good for any type of traps, be it a dog-proof trap (based on specific raccoon behavior) or a cage-like those reviewed above. It resembles granulated dog food, but it’s been prepared exclusively to attract coons. So it contains five oils they adore and should be attracted by the appetizing aroma. The bait also contains corn – not because raccoons love it so much (though they do, in a way), but to make it look better.
It maintains great while the weather is dry; if it’s raining, though, it may get soaked. So you better remove it before the rain starts. Under regular conditions, though, it retains its attractive qualities for many hours. Many raccoons have already been deported after failing this sort of marshmallow test.
This bait also has been reported to attract skunks, squirrels, and possums. Not that it’s bad: these are also good while away from your home. You can offer some homemade stuff instead, but the manufacturers have already spent their time cooking this product for 8 hours, so it seems tastier for these petit gourmets.
Pros:
Cons:
attracts mostly raccoons;
pleasant aroma;
easy to load;
compatible with various traps.
there are cheaper options;
gets soaked when wet.
4. Clever Sprouts Dog Cat Repellent, Ultrasonic Animal Repellent – the Best Ultrasonic Raccoon Repellent
No products found.
Not much is known about the brand, but it’s present in most online shops and retails, so they must know something I don’t. When focusing on the device itself, though, the idea is interesting. It’s quite an unusual ultrasonic raccoon deterrent: a device that produces ultrasound, unheard for humans, but very irritating for certain animals, including coons. If you need to deter raccoons from the property with the least effort necessary, this is quite an option.
The advantage of this device is that it covers the entire area within its reach, using a highly irritating sound, like that of a mosquito to human ears. It’s only activated, though, when its motion sensors detect anything moving. Most humans just won’t notice its activity. But if unluckily you’re a raccoon (or a dog, a cat, a skunk, a hog, a wild boar, or whatever that sensible), you will eagerly escape the area. And when assisted with a bright flash, the effect of it will surely scare an animal away.
This sort of device will always require power, but this problem is efficiently solved with a built-in solar battery. You just need to select a spot with direct solar lighting to power it. If you’re mounting it on the special spike in the field, this issue is solved automatically. If you can’t only rely on the sun on, though, you can power it from three A.A. batteries or a pluggable adapter.
Another one, though, is a real problem. It detects anything that moves in front of the sensor, no matter if it’s a stray raccoon or squirrel, or your domestic cat or dog. If you don’t want your pets to suffer from that noise, you’ll have to refuse this option, as attractive as it is.
If it’s no issue for you, probably this device is the best way to get rid of raccoons if they are numerous in your area. The distance it covers is 25-30 feet around.
Pros:
Cons:
covers quite a large area;
no chemical impact;
unheard for humans;
built-in solar battery and a mounting spike.
if you have a dog or a cat, they may be irritated as well.
5. Colton’s Naturals Small Animal Repellent Spray – the Best Raccoon Repellent Spray
This spray by Colton’s Naturals is natural – like all the products by this vendor based in Holly Springs, NC. It works like other repellents, spreading the smells raccoons don’t like, and, as for me, it’s the best way to deal with them, as it assumes not dealing with them at all. Better living through chemistry, unless you’re a raccoon.
It is based on peppermint oil and garlic I have already mentioned as strong natural repellents, though in this spray, the active ingredients are way more concentrated. You need to spray it around constantly to make the animals feel something has changed.
It will take some periods of keeping the smell strong, so the animals visiting the area detect it each time and eventually form a sort of attitude to avoid the spot. It can be used to keep away raccoons, as well as squirrels, mice, and other small animals. Just make sure you repeat the procedure periodically, and especially after heavy rains that wash the compounds away.
While there are alternatives for outside use, inside, there are fewer. If your question is how to get rid of raccoons in your attic or any other enclosed space, a chemical deterrent is probably the best option. A bad smell will be more intense there than in the open air, so its efficiency will be higher. Given that any lethal alternative is not just probably illegal but also generating more problems with the body of the animal, chemical deterring is the number one option.
Last but not least: it’s safe for humans, including children and nursing mothers. It is also said to be as safe for pets, though I wouldn’t be so sure, as dogs’ or cats’ sense of smell is also stronger than that of us humans.
Pros:
Cons:
efficient against many small animals;
safe for humans;
makes coons and others change their habits;
gets them out of unreachable places;
you may find its smell pleasant.
needs to be applied constantly;
may irritate your pets;
effect not granted.
How to Prevent Raccoons
If you have surveyed your property and found no sign of presence, you’re a lucky one. This state, though, needs to be protected, so no wild raccoon squats in here.
Keep your yard clean. The more mess you make, the more attractive the place gets for a raccoon passing by.
Keep your trash containers closed tight, so they can’t even smell it.
Find some time to fence your garden. It’s similar to dog protection: if the fence is good to keep dogs out, it’s good to deter raccoons.
Use repellents preventively. The unpleasant smell will let the coons know it’s not the place to stay.
Don’t leave food in access. As we have said more than once, raccoons eat everything, so hide anything edible away.
As you see, most recommendations are quite easy to follow. If you give it some time before they come, you will not have to spend more to drive them away. Maybe you will even keep from hating them. So, knowing how to stop raccoons will still let you enjoy seeing them.
FAQ
What to Do If You See a Raccoon in Your Yard?
The worst thing you can do is try to chase it away or hunt it down. If you try to scare them with no action, they soon learn to ignore these threats: confirmed by scientists managing raccoon problems. Shooting raccoons may be illegal in your state, and trying to catch it with your bare hands may be dangerous due to diseases they may carry.
It will be much better to set a trap or use repellents. You can also contact local authorities, but they will probably tell you the same.
What Attracts Raccoons to Your Yard?
It’s hard to predict. If there are chickens or other easy games, that’s a reason, of course. Trash containers conceal a lot for raccoons to eat and enjoy; as you already know, they are omnivorous. But even an empty attic or someplace to hide can be an attractor, as they like it dry and warm. Still, there are some recommendations on keeping them away in the section below.
What Raccoons Don’t Like?
Like other animals, including humans, they don’t like being hurt or hunted. If seriously, there are always some sounds and aromas that feel like danger, repelling them without the necessity to actually hurt or pursue them. Use the knowledge, Luke!
Summary
As soon as they invent a Raccooball that you can throw at them coons and lock them in, let me know. I’ll take three of them. But so far, I have to play Raccoon G.O. in more traditional ways and share them here.
And what about you? What methods have you been using against raccoons and other animals? Were they more or less efficient? Maybe any funny stories about your defense? I’ll gladly read these if you leave any in the comments below. Thanks!
References:
Raccoon (North Carolina Wildlife Profiles): http://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/download?doi=10.1.1.446.2156&rep=rep1&type=pdf
Infectious Diseases of Raccoons (A Public Health Announcement from the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management): http://www.dem.ri.gov/programs/bnatres/agricult/pdf/raccoons.pdf
Contrasting raccoons from natural and urban habitats on Sanibel Island, Florida (Iowa State University): https://lib.dr.iastate.edu/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=18305&context=rtd
Managing Raccoon Problems in Missouri (University of Missouri): https://extension.missouri.edu/publications/g9453
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