frequently asked q u e s t i o n s critter f i e l d   g u i d e what is it? g u e s s   g a m e ask jim y o u r   q u e s t i o n s critter care i n s t r u c t i o n s links f o r   m o r e   i n f o Critterguy / FAQ / Raccoons FAQ: Raccoons Raccoons persist in getting into our garbage and tearing things up. How can we stop them? Raccoons are grossly over-abundant, and have severe impact on birds and other wildlife; can tear up lawns, destroy crops, enter and damage buildings; can carry rabies and various other diseases. raccoon Remedies include: •   Exclusion: (Cap chimneys, repair openings in barns, sheds, etc., fence off under decks; electric fences can protect small crop areas, otherwise 'coons can climb most non-electric fences easily. Commercial animal repellents may deter 'coons from small buildings and away from certain plants; a large dog in the yard may also deter 'coon activity.) •   Live trapping and removal: (Large cage traps baited with peanut butter, chicken parts, etc. will work. Handle with care! Raccoons must be moved at least 15 miles to avoid quick return; moving them is often discouraged by MDNR, as it just puts the problem in someone else's neighborhood.) •   Hunting: (Effective where allowed; check with MDNR for regulations.) •   Trapping and humane destruction: (Legal on private property for raccoons doing damage; check with MDNR for recommended disposal methods. Handle carcasses with extreme caution, and avoid contact with feces to avoid disease transmission.) © Copyright 2004. All Rights Reserved.