How to Catch a Baby Raccoon
Catching a baby raccoon can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it requires careful handling. Here are some tips for safely and humanely catching a baby raccoon:
Appear Friendly
When trying to catch a baby raccoon, it is important to appear friendly to the animal. Talk softly in a comforting tone and approach calmly. You should provide the baby raccoon with an escape route and avoid moving your hands too quickly.
Separate From Its Mother
If possible, try to separate the baby raccoon from its mother before you attempt to catch it. You can do this by using a net or hoop to herd the baby away from the mother and other older raccoons.
Lure With Food
Bait can be used to lure the baby raccoon out from its hiding spot. Use something that is highly appealing to a baby raccoon such as a wet cat food, canned tuna, small pieces of cooked chicken, or a mixture of peanut butter and oatmeal. Place the food in an open area and wait for the baby raccoon to come out and feed.
Wear Gloves and Stay Calm
When you are attempting to capture the baby raccoon, it is important to wear gloves to protect yourself against a bite or scratch. Also, it is essential to stay calm, move slowly and avoid startling the animal.
Use a Box Trap
A box trap is an effective and humane way to capture a baby raccoon. Place the box trap in the area where the animal is known to be found. The box should be large enough for the baby raccoon to enter, but small enough to secure it within the trap. Once the baby raccoon is inside, close the door behind it to prevent it from escaping.
Release Into the Wild
Once you have successfully caught the baby raccoon, it must be released into the wild. If possible, release the baby raccoon back to its original habitat. If not, release it into a similar, natural habitat where there are plenty of food sources and other raccoons.
Conclusion
Catching a baby raccoon can be a fun and rewarding experience if done carefully and responsibly. By following these tips, you can safely and humanely capture a baby raccoon.