Raccoon Trapping and Fur Harvesting Information
Trapping has a rich history in North America. From the first humans on the continent during the last ice age to the mountain men of the 1700s, fur-bearing animals have been used for clothing and food. Raccoons are no different. Nowadays, raccoons are mostly harvested for the fur as well as an addition to the dinner plate.
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History
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Early trappers harvested fur-bearing animals as their primary means of income. As the demand for fur decreased, trapping became a sport. Trapping today can still supplement your income and put meat in the freezer.
Habitat
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Raccoons can be found almost everywhere in North America, from the backyard to the mountains in the West. They prefer swampy areas and woods near water. They can also do significant damage to crops.
Trapping
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Several different trap sets can be used to catch raccoons. Traps should be placed along trails the animals use between den trees and feeding areas. These can be foothold or body traps. Snares can also be effective in some areas.
Getting the fur
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Once the raccoon is harvested, it's time to get the hide off. The easiest way is to hang the coon by a back leg. Cut around all four wrists and make cuts on the back legs from the wrists to the anus. Cut around the anus, pull the tail bone out of the tail and pull the hide down off the carcass.
Selling the fur
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Most buyers want the furs green (untanned, unsalted). Just put them on a stretcher and dry. Your local trappers association, the National Trappers Association or the Fur Takers of American can help with information about buyers and fur auctions.
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