RaccoonRaccoons are incredibly common in St. Louis, as well as many other cities in Missouri, and quite a few of them live within city limits. Raccoons are easily identified by their masklike markings, and they vary in size from 18 to 28 inches, ranging from 5 to 35 pounds.

They are nocturnal and scavenge around homes and businesses for food. Omnivorous, they feed on the typical contents of garbage bags, fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, and whatever else they can find. Actually, there isn’t much they won’t eat, including, rodents, young rabbits and carrion. They are exceptionally strong for their size, and have a well-developed sense of sight, as well as that of hearing and touch. They are excellent climbers and establish dens in places like chimneys, roofs and attics.

Not only do raccoons cause damage when building their dens, like the destruction of shingles and aluminum, they chew electrical wires and take walls apart to create passages for themselves. Den sites can also become clogged with nesting materials, a major safety issue where chimneys are concerned.

In addition to property damage, raccoons carry disease and a variety of parasites, such as fleas, ticks, and lice. Rabies, which can affect both you and your pets, is of particular concern. As well as being strong and agile, raccoons are smart, persistent, territorial animals, and you should never attempt to engage one.

Our Approach:

Trapping any wildlife is not for the do-it-yourselfer. Under all conditions, it requires an understanding of animal behavior, knowledge that can only be attained through experience. This is why a Cogent technician should be considered.

Cogent practices a humane catch and release strategy with raccoons. However, with safety as our first priority, trap placement is strongly considered due to the nature/behavior of a raccoon. Most trapping locations are outside, in areas that offer the most safety.