How to Get Raccoons Out of a Trash Dumpster

A raccoon's mask helps to enhance night vision and reduce glare.

A raccoon following the scent of food can easily slide down a trash dumpster. But once inside, it is unable to climb up the smooth, vertical surface to exit. You can efficiently remove a raccoon humanely from a dumpster with the proper tools. Think safety first when helping a raccoon to escape. If the raccoon shows no fear of humans or appears sick, contact your local Humane Society.

Things You'll Need

• Leather gloves
• Long-sleeve shirt
• Long pants
• Tree branch or board, long enough to reach top to bottom of dumpster

Instructions

1. Protect yourself with leather gloves, a long-sleeve shirt and long pants.

2. Open the cover of the dumpster if it is closed.

3. Place a long branch or board inside the dumpster to serve as the raccoon's ramp.

4. Stand out of sight. Natural fear of humans prevents the raccoon from leaving while in your presence. The raccoon may not feel safe during daylight hours to exit the dumpster and may wait for darkness.

5. Tightly secure the cover of the dumpster to prevent other raccoons from entering.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure no children or pets are outside while helping the raccoon to exit the dumpster.

• It is illegal in some states to trap raccoons. Check your local and state ordinances.

References

• Inside the OHS: Raccoons in a Dumpster
• Austin Area Wildlife Rehabilitation: Rescue - Raccoon

Resources

• Raccoon Facts