How to Catch Raccoons in the Attic

Having raccoons in your attic can be a nuisance and can cause damage to your home. The best way to get rid of them is to catch them and remove them from your home. This article will provide you with the information you need to safely and effectively catch raccoons in your attic.

Overview

• Understand the signs of a raccoon infestation
• Choose the right traps for catching raccoons
• Set the traps in the right locations
• Check the traps regularly and safely remove the raccoons

Raccoons can be a nuisance in your attic, and can cause damage to your home. The best way to get rid of them is to catch them and remove them from your home. This article will provide you with the information you need to safely and effectively catch raccoons in your attic.

Signs of a Raccoon Infestation

The first step in catching raccoons in your attic is to identify the signs of a raccoon infestation. Raccoons are nocturnal animals, so they are most active at night. You may hear them scratching, scurrying, or thumping in your attic. You may also notice damage to your roof, such as holes or torn shingles. Raccoons will also leave behind droppings and urine, which can be identified by their distinctive smell.

Choosing the Right Traps

Once you have identified the signs of a raccoon infestation, you will need to choose the right traps for catching them. The most common type of trap is a live-catch cage trap. These traps are designed to capture the raccoon without harming it. They should be placed in areas where the raccoons are active, such as near the entry points to your attic.

Setting the Traps

Once you have chosen the right traps, you will need to set them in the right locations. Place the traps near the entry points to your attic, such as holes in the roof or vents. Make sure the traps are securely anchored to the ground, and cover them with a cloth or tarp to keep the raccoons from being scared away.

Checking the Traps

Once the traps are set, you will need to check them regularly. Check the traps at least once a day, and more often if possible. When you check the traps, wear gloves and a face mask to protect yourself from any diseases the raccoons may be carrying. If you find a raccoon in the trap, you will need to safely remove it.

Removing the Raccoons

Once you have caught the raccoons, you will need to safely remove them from your home. Contact your local animal control agency or wildlife rehabilitator for assistance. They will be able to safely and humanely remove the raccoons from your home.

Pro Tip

When setting the traps, make sure to use bait that is attractive to raccoons. Peanut butter, marshmallows, and canned fish are all good choices.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I have a raccoon infestation?

Look for signs of raccoon activity, such as holes in the roof, droppings, and urine. You may also hear them scratching, scurrying, or thumping in your attic.

What type of traps should I use?

Live-catch cage traps are the most effective type of traps for catching raccoons. Make sure to anchor the traps securely to the ground, and cover them with a cloth or tarp.

How often should I check the traps?

Check the traps at least once a day, and more often if possible. Wear gloves and a face mask when checking the traps to protect yourself from any diseases the raccoons may be carrying.