Havahart 1079: the best cage trap for property owners
The Havahart 1079 Large Professional Live Animal Trap is the standard recommendation for property owners who want to capture and relocate (where legal) nuisance raccoons. The galvanized steel construction resists rust for years of outdoor use. The dual-door design allows end-to-end placement that works equally well in either direction, improving catch rates for raccoons that approach from different directions.
Check price on Amazon →We compared the leading raccoon traps to find which provide the best catch rates, durability, and ease of use for both nuisance control and dedicated trapping.
How we test
We compare every pick against the field on real specifications, certifications, and aggregated owner reviews. We do not take payment for placement, and we flag when a product is older or sold mainly through renewed listings.
At a glance
| Pick | Best for | Score | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Havahart 1079: the best cage trap for property owners | Check price | ||
| Duke DP Dog-Proof Trap: best for dedicated trappers | Check price |
The picks, reviewed
Havahart 1079: the best cage trap for property owners
The Havahart 1079 Large Professional Live Animal Trap is the standard recommendation for property owners who want to capture and relocate (where legal) nuisance raccoons. The galvanized steel construction resists rust for years of outdoor use. The dual-door design allows end-to-end placement that works equally well in either direction, improving catch rates for raccoons that approach from different directions.
Duke DP Dog-Proof Trap: best for dedicated trappers
The Duke DP Dog-Proof Trap is the most widely used DP trap among serious raccoon trappers for its reliable trigger mechanism, compact size for easy set preparation, and high selectivity. The cylinder design requires the raccoon's dexterous front paws to activate the trigger, meaning dogs, cats, and most other non-target animals cannot spring the mechanism. This selectivity makes DP traps far more efficient than cage traps for targeted raccoon trapping.
What to look for
Legal compliance
This is always first. Verify the trap type you want to use is legal in your state and locality, and that you have any required license. This is non-negotiable.
Size for target animal
Cage traps for raccoons need to be at least 10 x 12 inches in cross section and 32 inches long. Smaller traps catch a raccoon but may injure it as it struggles inside a too-tight enclosure.
Trigger reliability
A trigger that is too sensitive trips from rain, debris, or passing birds. A trigger that is too stiff requires excessive investigation to spring and reduces catch rates. Adjustable trigger tension on higher-end traps is a useful feature.
Galvanized steel quality
All outdoor raccoon traps should be galvanized steel, not painted bare steel that rusts rapidly in outdoor conditions. Check the galvanizing quality (should be even and thick, not thin and flaking).
Escape prevention
A trapped raccoon is a strong, determined animal. Verify door latching, frame integrity, and wire gauge (welded 14 to 12 gauge is standard for quality cage traps) before purchasing. Cheap wire gauge allows raccoons to deform and escape the trap.
Transport safety
A cage trap that allows the trapped animal to reach through and bite or scratch the carrier is dangerous. Look for designs with small enough mesh or covers that prevent direct animal access to the outside of the trap during transport.
FAQs
For property owners wanting to catch and relocate raccoons humanely, a large cage trap (10 x 12 x 32 inches minimum) from Havahart or Tomahawk is the best choice. For dedicated trappers wanting maximum selectivity for raccoons specifically, DP (dog-proof) traps from Duke or Bridger are the most efficient option.
Regulations vary significantly by state. Many states require a trapping license for any raccoon trapping. Some states allow homeowners to trap nuisance animals causing damage to their property without a trapping license, while others require one regardless. Always verify your state and county regulations.
Use raccoon-specific baits (marshmallows, sweet corn) that are less attractive to cats and dogs than fish or meat baits. Set cage traps in areas where pets do not roam. Place traps under brush or natural cover away from areas pets access. Check traps early in the morning before pets are active.
State laws on raccoon relocation vary significantly. Many states prohibit relocating raccoons due to disease transmission (rabies, distemper) and population management concerns. Contact your state wildlife agency for guidance on legal options for trapped nuisance raccoons.
