Bait
Raccoon Stealing Bait Without Setting Off the Trap: 6 Fixes
If the bait disappears but the trap stays open, the raccoon is probably reaching the food without stepping...
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Guides for trapping operators
Practical answers on raccoons, TNR colonies, route planning, and running a smart-trap fleet.
Filtered by Live Traps · All guides
Humane Release
Opossum Playing Dead in a Trap: Is It Dead or Faking?
A limp, open-mouthed opossum in a live trap is very likely playing dead, not dying. Learn what to...
ReadBait
Marshmallows as Raccoon Bait: Why Sweet Bait Keeps Cats Out
Marshmallows attract raccoons without the high cat interest that comes with fish or canned cat food. Learn why...
ReadLive Traps
Live Trap Sprung but Empty: What Tripped It?
A closed, empty live trap is not a mystery if you know where to look. The bait, trap...
ReadHomeowners
Caught a Skunk in a Live Trap? Let It Go Without Getting Sprayed
Caught a skunk while trapping for a raccoon or cat? Learn how to cover the trap, recognize spray...
ReadBait
Best Bait for a Skunk Trap (and How to Avoid the Cat)
The best skunk bait depends on which other animals visit your yard. Compare reliable options, learn where to...
ReadHomeowners
How Often Should You Check a Live Trap?
A live trap should be checked at least daily and more often when weather or exposure could affect...
ReadCats
Caught the Neighbor's Cat in a Live Trap? Here's What to Do
Release the cat where you caught it as soon as you can, then give the neighbor a friendly...
ReadAnimal Welfare
Winter Live Trapping: Protecting a Caught Animal From Cold and Wet
Live trapping in cold weather requires shelter from wind and wet, a reliable trap mechanism, and a short...
ReadFeral Cats
Should You Cover a Live Trap? When a Cover Helps and When It Hurts
Cover a live trap after a catch almost every time to help the animal settle. Before a catch,...
ReadArmadillos
How to Trap an Armadillo: Why Bait Rarely Works and Placement Does
Armadillos rarely enter cage traps for food, so successful trapping depends on placing a stable trap directly in...
ReadAnimal Welfare
Are Live Traps Humane? The 4 Factors That Decide
A live trap is not humane simply because it captures an animal alive. Response time, weather exposure, non-target...
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