Raccoon Hunting Trap Information

Millions of raccoons are harvested by hunters and trappers each year.

Raccoons are one of the most prolific species of wildlife in North America. They can be found in wilderness areas and have adapted to living in close proximity with humans. Additionally, they are opportunistic feeders, readily consuming fish, reptiles, amphibians, insects, grain, fruits and vegetables. Raccoon populations are controlled by state game agencies by setting regulated hunting and trapping seasons that allow the annual surplus of animals to be harvested while ensuring enough breeding stock survives to repopulate the available habitat each year.

Hunting

Raccoon hunting with dogs is a popular sport. Hounds are turned loose at dusk or soon after sundown when raccoons are active, the dogs catch the scent then trail the animal until it escapes by climbing a tree. Once the raccoon is treed, the hunters move in and either gather the hounds or harvest the raccoon.

Calling raccoons with callers that mimic the sound of a wounded animal is an increasingly popular way to hunt raccoons. When a raccoon approaches, trying to find the wounded animal and an easy meal, the hunter gets an opportunity to shoot.

Trapping

More raccoons are harvested by trapping each year than any other method. Trappers rely on several kinds of traps to catch the animal, depending on where and when the trapping takes place and according to specific regulations set by state wildlife agencies. Foot-hold traps are legal in most areas. Body-grip traps, which instantly kill the animal, can be used in other places. Cage traps capture the animals alive, as does cable restraints that slip over the animal's head similar to a dog collar.

Fur

Almost all the raccoons harvested in North America are skinned and their pelts sold into the international fur trade. Though American garment makers do use raccoon fur, the pelts are highly regarded in Russia and China where the fur is used for fashion as well as warmth.

Food

Some trappers and hunters harvest raccoons for their meat as much or more than for the value of the pelts. Raccoon meat is never tough or strong-flavored and lends itself to a variety of preparation techniques. Raccoon meat is a traditional favorite in many areas of the Southern United States.

Nuisance

Because of the raccoons' adaptability and penchant for living in suburban and even urban areas, they sometimes become a nuisance species when they invade homes, garages or storage sheds, or begin raiding gardens and garbage cans. Animal damage control agents are often called in to trap and remove problem animals.

References

• Trapper and Predator Caller: FHA Auction Results

Resources

• The Big Zoo: Raccoons