Introducing raccoon box traps, trapping tips, and other catching goods

The distribution of the raccoon, which is a specified alien species, is spreading rapidly in Japan, and it is becoming common to hear about agricultural damage and invasion of houses.

The damage to agricultural crops has reached a scale exceeding 300 million yen per year, and the spread of the habitat distribution is unstoppable . In addition, due to the seriousness of the damage and the need for prompt action, some areas have lifted the necessary restrictions on trapping . Yes, no permit is required and can be caught throughout the year).

Raccoons give birth from 2 to 6 cubs in spring and summer, so summer is the season when damage is most common. This time, I would like to introduce box traps that are suitable for catching raccoons, tips for capturing them, and trapping supplies other than box traps.

Box trap recommended for catching raccoons

Raccoons are 40 to 60 cm long and 20 to 30 cm tall. Box traps are mainly used to capture beasts of this size, not just raccoons. The box traps used are not the large ones used to catch wild boars and deer, but small ones with a depth of about 80 centimeters and a width and height of about 30 centimeters. There are two types of box traps for raccoons available at our store.

folding type

It is a simple type that can be assembled by unfolding it from a folded state and inserting a reinforcing bar. In North America, where raccoons are native, similar box traps are widely used when catching raccoons.

A footboard is installed inside the box trap, and the structure is such that the footboard and metal fittings of the door are connected by metal rods. When a beast enters the box trap and steps on the footboard, the door closes and cannot be opened (footboard type). *Although there are some traps that use hanging bait, we use the tread type because they can only be set with solid bait.

There are 3 types of sizes below, and medium size or big size is recommended for catching raccoons.

Bulk purchase discounts are also available, so there are customers who buy in bulk in their area.

Click here for folding type product details>>

Robust type

It is a robust type made of wire mesh and is intended for repeated use. It has the strength to stand up even when a human adult climbs on it. A string is stretched inside the trap, and when the prey enters the trap and touches the string, the door will fall.

If you value ease of use, you can choose the foldable type, and if you value longevity, you can choose the robust type.

Click here for product details of robust type>>

Tips for catching raccoons with box traps

First, check with the relevant section of the local government about the necessary requirements for catching raccoons, such as whether or not a hunting license is required. If you do not meet the requirements, you will not be able to perform the capture act, so be careful. Also, check in advance how to dispose of them if they are caught.

Selection of installation location

Look for areas with traces of raccoons to select locations for box traps. Raccoons have distinctive footprints, and they are shaped like five long toes with claws attached, so I think they are relatively easy to recognize. In particular, raccoons tend to like raccoons near the water, so it's a good idea to check them out.

If you find a place with many traces, choose a place that is as flat and horizontal as possible to set the box trap. If the surface is uneven with plants, it is a good idea to smooth it out with your feet beforehand.

Setting up a box trap

When assembling and installing box traps, you may cut your hands with metal burrs, etc., so wear protective gear. After setting the box trap in the chosen location, fix the box trap to the ground with stakes or branches to prevent it from tipping over. In addition, remove as much leaves and branches as possible, especially near the entrance, so that the movement of the mechanism and door is not obstructed by plants.

lure by bait

In order to catch a raccoon with a box trap, lure with bait is essential. Place the bait deep inside the trap, but make sure the bait is out of reach of the animal from outside the trap. Also, cover the top of the box trap with the surrounding branches and leaves so that the bait cannot be seen from the outside of the box trap. This prevents malfunctions when birds and beasts try to eat food from outside the trap.

Place bait near the entrance and around the trap to make it easier to catch.

Food selection is important. Raccoons are omnivorous, so they eat meat, vegetables, fruits, and even pet food. However, it is better to avoid fish, meat, pet food, etc., as stray cats may accidentally bite them. Wheat bran, fried bread, sweets (caramel corn, marshmallows, etc.) are recommended.

Box trap patrol

If possible, it is a good idea to check the box traps you have set up twice a day, in the morning and in the evening. If you check too often, the raccoons may be wary and may not approach the traps, so if you are concerned, installing a trail camera is one way.

Response in case of capture

The Alien Species Act prohibits raccoons from being kept, released, or moved alive. Depending on the municipality, if the captor contacts the local government department, there may be support for staff to take it back, transport it, and euthanize it. *When slaughtering, from the perspective of animal welfare, it is necessary to take care not to cause pain as much as possible.

traps other than box traps

In addition to box traps, there are also traps that are activated when a raccoon puts its front paws into the opening and traps the raccoon by fixing its front paws. Raccoons are caught because they use their front legs skillfully to grab food, but other medium-sized mammals are less likely to be captured, so there is the advantage of reducing the chance of erroneous capture.

This product is designed so that when the raccoon puts its hand into the opening containing the bait and pulls the trigger, it can be captured by fixing the wrist with a binding band. Unlike the type that tightens with a metal spring, it is a product that is less likely to cause pain to humans and animals. If you want to avoid erroneous capture, please consider it.