Selecting the correct trap size is the single most important factor for both successful capture and humane treatment of a raccoon. An improperly sized trap can result in the animal avoiding the device entirely, a failed capture, or a serious injury. Raccoons are intelligent and highly dexterous, quickly learning to avoid traps that are too small or unstable. Precise dimensions ensure the animal fully commits to entering the trap before the mechanism is sprung.
Trap Type Determines Required Sizing
The necessary dimensions for a raccoon trap depend entirely on the type of mechanism being used for capture. The two primary categories the public typically encounters are live cage traps and body grip traps. Each functions differently, fundamentally changing the measurement that defines its effective size.
Live cage traps catch and hold the animal unharmed until release or relocation. For this type, the overall volume—including length, width, and height—is what matters most. The trap must be long enough to contain a mature raccoon’s entire body without allowing its tail or limbs to remain outside the closing door.
Body grip traps, also known as Conibear-style traps, are designed to dispatch the animal quickly by clamping down over its neck and chest. Their size is defined by the jaw spread, which is the opening the animal must pass through. The critical measurement is the square or rectangular opening size, not the total length. For a raccoon, the standard size is typically the #220 model, which features a seven-by-seven-inch jaw spread.
Standard Dimensions for Effective Raccoon Capture
For live cage traps, which are the most common choice for homeowners, the ideal size range is a minimum of 30 to 36 inches in length. This substantial length is necessary to draw the raccoon fully inside, ensuring its entire mass is over the trigger plate. If the trap is too short, the animal may only partially enter, allowing it to retrieve the bait or spring the mechanism without being secured.
The width and height of the cage should be between 10 and 12 inches. A common recommended size is 32 inches long by 10 inches wide by 12 inches high. These dimensions provide enough interior space for an adult raccoon, which can measure 24 to 38 inches long including its tail, to move comfortably past the entry door. This space encourages the raccoon to enter without hesitation, reducing trap shyness.
Sizing down for a juvenile raccoon is not advised. A smaller trap may not be sturdy enough to handle a fully grown animal if one is accidentally caught. Using a trap that is too small also increases the risk of injury, as the door may close prematurely on a limb or tail. Professionals favor the larger end of the recommended range to ensure a secure and humane capture.
Key Structural Factors for Trap Selection
Beyond the overall dimensions, the structural integrity of the trap is paramount because raccoons possess considerable strength and determination. The wire construction should be heavy-duty, with a gauge of at least 14 being common for durable models designed for these animals. Thinner wire gauges can be bent or torn apart by a motivated raccoon attempting to escape, leading to damage or release.
The door mechanism must be robust and feature a secure locking system to prevent escape after the trap is sprung. Raccoons are known for their dexterity and will manipulate a poorly designed lock until they manage to open it. A solid metal door, as opposed to a mesh one, provides an additional layer of security and protection for the captured animal.
The trigger plate must be appropriately sensitive and correctly positioned. The plate needs to be wide enough to be unavoidable once the raccoon steps inside, and it must require low pressure to spring easily under the animal’s weight. Optimal placement is usually in the center of the trap, which forces the raccoon to commit to entering the cage to reach the bait secured at the far end.