what to do with a trapped raccoon

2 min read 26-12-2024

Finding a raccoon trapped on your property can be a concerning situation. Raccoons are wild animals, and approaching them directly can be dangerous for both you and the animal. This guide outlines the best course of action for dealing with a trapped raccoon, emphasizing safety and humane treatment.

Assessing the Situation: Is the Raccoon Truly Trapped?

Before you jump to conclusions, carefully observe the raccoon. Is it actually trapped, or simply resting or exploring? A raccoon might appear trapped if it's:

In a small space: Check if it can easily escape. A raccoon wedged in a narrow gap may need assistance.
Injured or sick: If it appears injured or unable to move, it requires professional help. Signs include limping, bleeding, or lethargy.
Caught in something: Is it tangled in netting, fencing, or other materials?

If the raccoon is simply exploring, give it space and time. Most raccoons will find their way out on their own.

How to Safely Help a Trapped Raccoon

If you've determined the raccoon truly needs help, follow these steps:

1. Prioritize Your Safety:

Never approach a raccoon directly. Raccoons can bite or scratch, even if they seem docile. Maintain a safe distance.
Wear protective clothing: Gloves, long sleeves, and long pants will protect you from bites and scratches.
Use tools, not your hands: Employ tools to assist the raccoon without direct contact.

2. Contact Wildlife Professionals:

Your first and best course of action is to contact your local animal control or wildlife rehabilitation center. They have the expertise and equipment to safely handle the raccoon. They can assess its condition, provide necessary care, and release it back into the wild responsibly.

3. Temporary Measures (If Professional Help is Delayed):

If immediate professional help isn't available, you can take temporary measures. These are only for short-term situations until a professional arrives:

Provide food and water: Place food and water a safe distance from the raccoon to prevent further stress. Avoid direct contact.
Create a safe escape route: Carefully remove obstructions that prevent its escape. Use long-handled tools to safely manipulate objects.
Secure the area: Prevent further access to the trapped area to prevent the raccoon from becoming more stressed or injured.

Important Note: Do not attempt to capture or relocate the raccoon yourself. This is dangerous and can be illegal in some areas. Improper handling can lead to injury to the animal, disease transmission, or violation of local wildlife regulations.

Preventing Future Trapping Incidents

Preventing future trapping incidents is crucial. Consider these preventative steps:

Secure trash cans: Keep garbage cans tightly sealed to avoid attracting raccoons to your property.
Repair holes and gaps: Seal any openings in your home or outbuildings that raccoons might use for entry.
Remove attractants: Clean up spilled food, pet food, and other attractants.
Install deterrents: Consider using motion-activated sprinklers or other deterrents to discourage raccoons from entering your property.

What NOT to Do with a Trapped Raccoon

Avoid these actions, which are dangerous and potentially harmful:

Do not attempt to handle the raccoon yourself.
Do not use harmful chemicals or traps.
Do not release the raccoon far from its original location.
Do not try to feed it by hand.

Remember, raccoons are wild animals and should be treated with respect and caution. Your safety and the well-being of the raccoon are paramount. Always prioritize professional assistance when dealing with a trapped raccoon. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a safe and humane resolution to the situation.