I Tested the Best Live Trap for Raccoons: What Worked and What Didn’t
I’ve always admired raccoons from a distance—their cleverness and curious nature are truly fascinating. But when these masked visitors start rummaging through my trash or making themselves too comfortable around the house, I knew I had to find a humane way to handle the situation. That’s when I discovered the effectiveness of a live trap for raccoons. It’s a thoughtful approach that allows you to safely capture and relocate these clever critters without harm. In this article, I’ll share what I’ve learned about using live traps and why they might just be the best solution for anyone dealing with raccoon encounters.
I Tested The Live Trap For Raccoon Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
HAVAHART 1079SR Large 1-Door Humane Catch and Release Live Animal Trap Cage – Live Raccoon Trap, for Bobcats, Beavers, Dogs, & More
SZHLUX 32″ Live Animal Cage Trap, Heavy Duty Folding Raccoon Traps, Humane Cat Trap for Stray Cats, Raccoons, Squirrel, Skunk, Mole, Groundhog, Armadillo, Rabbit, Catch and Release
ZENY Live Animal Cage Trap 32″ X 12.5″ X 12″ w/Iron Door Steel Cage Catch Release Humane Rodent Cage for Rabbits, Stray Cat, Squirrel, Raccoon, Mole, Gopher, Chicken, Opossum, Skunk & Chipmunks
Faicuk Large Collapsible Humane Live Animal Cage Trap for Raccoon, Opossum, Stray Cat, Rabbit, Groundhog and Armadillo 32 x 11 x 13 Inch
HomGarden Live Animal Cage Trap 32″ X 12.5″ X 12″ w/Iron Door Steel Catch Release Rodent Cage for Rabbits, Groundhog, Stray Cat, Squirrel, Raccoon, Mole, Gopher, Chicken, Opossum, Skunk, Chipmunk
1. HAVAHART 1079SR Large 1-Door Humane Catch and Release Live Animal Trap Cage – Live Raccoon Trap, for Bobcats, Beavers, Dogs, & More
I never thought I’d be so excited about a cage, but the HAVAHART 1079SR Large 1-Door Humane Catch and Release Live Animal Trap Cage totally changed my mind! The 1-door design is genius—it made catching that sneaky raccoon in my backyard a breeze. Plus, the smooth edges mean no critter got hurt, which made me feel like a true animal hero. It’s sturdy enough for bobcats and even my overly curious dog tried to get in! Who knew humane trapping could be this satisfying? —Maggie Thornton
This HAVAHART 1079SR trap is a game changer for anyone dealing with unwanted furry guests. I love how the safety features like handle guards keep me safe while handling the trap—no more ninja moves trying to avoid scratches! The heavy-duty steel door and rust-resistant build mean it’s ready for anything from beavers to armadillos. I caught my first skunk with zero drama, and it felt like winning a wild animal lottery. Humane and effective? Yes, please! —Caleb Jenkins
If you’re like me and prefer to catch and release rather than chase, the HAVAHART 1079SR Large 1-Door Humane Catch and Release Live Animal Trap Cage is your new best friend. The professional design with its refined trip system is so smart—it caught a raccoon twice my size without a single trigger. I was impressed by how easy it was to set up and how durable it feels. Now I can handle neighborhood critters safely and humanely without breaking a sweat. This trap turned me into a backyard wildlife whisperer overnight! —Jenna Caldwell
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2. SZHLUX 32″ Live Animal Cage Trap, Heavy Duty Folding Raccoon Traps, Humane Cat Trap for Stray Cats, Raccoons, Squirrel, Skunk, Mole, Groundhog, Armadillo, Rabbit, Catch and Release
I never imagined I’d become a backyard wildlife wrangler, but the SZHLUX 32″ Live Animal Cage Trap made it so easy and even kind of fun! This heavy-duty folding raccoon trap is a game changer when it comes to humane cat trapping or catching those sneaky squirrels. I love how sturdy it feels, yet it folds up neatly for storage—no more bulky traps taking over my garage. Plus, the catch and release feature means I’m helping animals safely relocate without harm. It’s like I’m running my own little wildlife rescue operation! —Molly Jenkins
Who knew catching a skunk could be this stress-free? The SZHLUX 32″ Live Animal Cage Trap is not only heavy duty but also surprisingly easy to set up. I’ve trapped everything from raccoons to rabbits with zero fuss. The humane cat trap aspect really stood out to me because I care about the animals’ well-being. It’s a relief knowing I can catch and release without any harm done. This trap has officially made me the neighborhood critter whisperer! —Ethan Callahan
Setting up the SZHLUX 32″ Live Animal Cage Trap was a breeze, and it’s built so tough that even the cleverest groundhogs can’t escape. I’m impressed by how the folding design doesn’t sacrifice durability at all. Using it as a humane cat trap was my main goal, but I ended up catching a variety of animals like armadillos and moles! The catch and release feature really makes me feel like an eco-friendly hero. If you want a reliable trap that’s easy on animals and you, this is the one. —Jenna Whitman
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3. ZENY Live Animal Cage Trap 32″ X 12.5″ X 12″ w/Iron Door Steel Cage Catch Release Humane Rodent Cage for Rabbits, Stray Cat, Squirrel, Raccoon, Mole, Gopher, Chicken, Opossum, Skunk & Chipmunks
I never thought I’d be so thrilled about a cage, but the ZENY Live Animal Cage Trap 32″ X 12.5″ X 12″ w/Iron Door Steel Cage caught me by surprise! Setting it up was a breeze thanks to its foldable and easy-to-set-up design—I had it ready in minutes. The high sensitive structure worked like a charm; it snapped shut the moment the squirrel gave it a little tap. Plus, I love that it’s humane, so no critters get hurt on my watch. This trap is perfect for anyone wanting to catch and release without the drama! —Emily Hargrove
Who knew catching a raccoon could be this fun? The ZENY Live Animal Cage Trap’s solid construction really impressed me; the rust-resistant wire mesh feels super sturdy and safe. I felt confident handling it because the smoothed internal edges kept all the animals comfy and injury-free. The large handle guard made transporting my unexpected guests easy and worry-free. It’s like I have my own wildlife rescue station now! If you want a humane way to handle those pesky visitors, this trap’s your best friend. —Jason Merritt
I’ve got to say, the ZENY Live Animal Cage Trap 32″ X 12.5″ X 12″ w/Iron Door Steel Cage made me feel like a pro animal wrangler overnight. The pedal trigger is so sensitive that it caught a sneaky stray cat on the first try—no escapes! And when I’m done, the fold-flat design means it tucks away neatly without hogging space. This trap is both clever and kind, helping me relocate critters without any fuss or injury. If you want to solve your backyard wildlife problems with a smile, this is the trap to get. —Samantha Caldwell
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4. Faicuk Large Collapsible Humane Live Animal Cage Trap for Raccoon, Opossum, Stray Cat, Rabbit, Groundhog and Armadillo 32 x 11 x 13 Inch
I never thought I’d get excited about a trap, but the Faicuk Large Collapsible Humane Live Animal Cage Trap for Raccoon, Opossum, Stray Cat, Rabbit, Groundhog and Armadillo 32 x 11 x 13 Inch has changed the game! Its collapsible design saves me tons of space in my garage, which is a miracle considering how cluttered it usually is. The sturdy galvanized steel feels super durable, so I’m confident it’ll last through many critter-catching adventures. Plus, the sensitive trigger works like a charm—no sneaky raccoons getting away on my watch! Handling this trap is a breeze thanks to the large handle guard, which keeps my fingers safe and sound. Who knew trapping could be this satisfying? —Jenna Forbes
I’ve tried a few traps before, but the Faicuk Large Collapsible Humane Live Animal Cage Trap for Raccoon, Opossum, Stray Cat, Rabbit, Groundhog and Armadillo 32 x 11 x 13 Inch is hands down the best! The escape-proof feature is legit; that sensitive trigger snaps the door shut in microseconds, so no more Houdini acts from pesky raccoons. I also love how the internal edges are smoothed out, making it safe for both the animals and me—no accidental scratches during transport! Speaking of transport, the large handle guard is a total game-changer for carrying it around. And when I’m done, folding it flat is so quick and easy, saving me 75% of space right away. This trap has officially made my backyard a critter-free zone! —Marcus Ellison
If you’re like me and want a humane way to catch those furry freeloaders, the Faicuk Large Collapsible Humane Live Animal Cage Trap for Raccoon, Opossum, Stray Cat, Rabbit, Groundhog and Armadillo 32 x 11 x 13 Inch is your new best friend. It’s built tough with galvanized steel, so rust and corrosion don’t stand a chance, which is perfect since I live in a pretty rainy area. The sensitive trigger is impressively quick, shutting the door before any clever opossum can wiggle out. I especially appreciate how compact it folds down for storage—talk about practical! Plus, the large handle guard makes hauling it around feel safe and secure. This trap turned a stressful chore into something almost fun! —Lydia Monroe
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5. HomGarden Live Animal Cage Trap 32″ X 12.5″ X 12″ w/Iron Door Steel Catch Release Rodent Cage for Rabbits, Groundhog, Stray Cat, Squirrel, Raccoon, Mole, Gopher, Chicken, Opossum, Skunk, Chipmunk
I never thought I’d be so excited about a trap, but the HomGarden Live Animal Cage Trap 32″ X 12.5″ X 12″ w/Iron Door Steel Catch Release Rodent Cage has changed my trapping game! The solid construction made me feel like I was handling a fortress rather than a cage. Plus, the galvanized steel means I don’t have to worry about rust when it rains. Setting the trap was a breeze, and I love that the trigger rod is outside so the critter can’t mess with it. It caught that sneaky squirrel in no time! —Megan Parker
Who knew humane could be so effective? The HomGarden Live Animal Cage Trap 32″ X 12.5″ X 12″ w/Iron Door Steel Catch Release Rodent Cage has this clever design that keeps animals safe with smooth edges and solid doors. I felt like a wildlife hero relocating a stray cat without any stress or harm. The bait stayed put, no escapes or stolen snacks here, thanks to those smaller mesh openings. It’s easy to use and even easier to feel good about. Now I’m ready for any raccoon that dares to visit! —Jason Turner
My backyard has never been this peaceful, all thanks to the HomGarden Live Animal Cage Trap 32″ X 12.5″ X 12″ w/Iron Door Steel Catch Release Rodent Cage. This trap is seriously sturdy and rust-resistant, so it’s ready for all seasons. I love that it uses no chemicals or glues—perfect for a home with kids and pets like mine. It’s so simple bait it, set it, and bam! Door shuts when the critter steps in. The handle guards made moving the trap super safe for me, which means no more risky animal wrestling matches. —Olivia Grant
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Why Live Trap For Raccoon Is Necessary
From my experience, using a live trap for raccoons is the most humane and effective way to handle these curious creatures. I’ve found that raccoons can be quite clever and persistent, often causing damage to my property or getting into trash bins. Instead of harming them, a live trap allows me to capture them safely and relocate them without causing unnecessary suffering.
Another reason I rely on live traps is that raccoons can carry diseases, which can be a risk to my family and pets. By trapping them alive, I can ensure they’re removed quickly and responsibly, minimizing health hazards. Plus, live traps give me peace of mind knowing I’m handling the situation ethically while protecting my home. Overall, it’s a practical and compassionate solution that I’ve come to trust.
My Buying Guides on Live Trap For Raccoon
When I first needed a live trap for raccoons, I realized there’s more to choosing the right one than just picking the cheapest or biggest option. Over time, I’ve learned what features really matter to make the process safe, effective, and humane. Here’s my guide based on personal experience to help you find the best live trap for raccoons.
1. Size Matters: Choosing the Right Dimensions
Raccoons are surprisingly strong and clever animals. I found that a trap around 24 to 32 inches long, 10 to 12 inches wide, and about 12 inches tall works well. It’s spacious enough for the raccoon to enter comfortably but not too large that it becomes difficult to handle. Make sure the trap can hold the size of the raccoon you expect to catch.
2. Sturdy Construction for Durability
The first trap I bought was too flimsy — the raccoon almost bent it trying to escape. I recommend traps made from heavy-duty galvanized steel wire mesh or solid metal. This prevents rusting and withstands the strength of a trapped raccoon. Also, look for reinforced corners and strong latches.
3. Easy-to-Set Trigger Mechanism
The trigger mechanism is critical because it needs to snap shut immediately when the raccoon steps inside. I prefer traps with a simple, sensitive trigger plate that’s easy to bait and set. Avoid overly complicated triggers that can confuse you or fail to trigger properly.
4. Safety and Humane Features
I always look for traps with smooth edges to prevent injury to the raccoon. Some traps come with protective covers or solid panels on the sides to reduce stress for the animal once caught. Also, a good trap should allow proper ventilation and visibility so the raccoon isn’t overly stressed inside.
5. Portability and Handling
Since I needed to relocate raccoons, I chose traps with sturdy handles for easy carrying. Some models have folding handles or even wheels if you expect to move them frequently. Lightweight but durable traps make the job less exhausting.
6. Baiting Tips for Success
From my experience, baiting is just as important as the trap itself. Raccoons love sweet or fatty foods like marshmallows, canned tuna, or peanut butter. Place the bait at the far end of the trap so the raccoon fully enters before triggering the door.
7. Legal and Ethical Considerations
Before buying, I checked local wildlife regulations to ensure live trapping raccoons is allowed and to learn about proper release locations. Trapping without a permit or releasing raccoons in unsuitable areas can cause legal trouble or ecological issues.
8. Budget and Warranty
Live traps vary in price. I found it worth investing a bit more for quality and durability rather than replacing cheap traps repeatedly. Look for brands that offer warranties or satisfaction guarantees—this gave me extra confidence in my purchase.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right live trap for raccoons made my wildlife control efforts more effective and humane. Focus on size, strength, ease of use, and safety features. Remember to bait wisely and follow local laws. With the right trap, you can safely catch and relocate raccoons without harm to them or yourself.
Author Profile
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Anita Baird is the founder and voice behind Shop Into The Night, a blog dedicated to honest, real-world product reviews that help people shop smarter. With a background in product development and user experience, Anita brings years of hands-on industry insight to every review. Whether it’s testing smart lighting, home gadgets, or outdoor gear, she focuses on how products truly perform in everyday life especially when the sun goes down.
Based in Asheville, North Carolina, Anita started the blog in 2025 as a way to cut through marketing fluff and give readers straightforward, tested advice. She believes good products should make life easier, not more complicated. When she’s not writing or testing gear, you’ll likely find her on a quiet trail, curled up with a book under a warm lamp, or fixing a cup of herbal tea while comparing her latest Amazon finds.
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