A raccoon that dropped into a smooth trash can is stuck, it can’t get traction on the plastic walls to climb out. The fix is almost always simple: give it something to climb. Here’s how to do it without getting bitten.
Before you do anything
Go slow. A panicked raccoon will hurt itself thrashing, and it will bite if you get close. Wear heavy gloves, keep kids and pets back, and never reach into the can. Your job is to build an escape route, not to grab the animal.
The methods
- Make a ramp. Lean a board, branch, or piece of plywood from the bottom of the can up over the rim. The raccoon will climb right out.
- Tip the can over. Lay it on its side and step well back. Give it a minute.
- Lower a knotted rope. Tie knots every several inches so the raccoon has something to grip.
- Drop in a piece of hardware cloth or any textured material as a ladder.
- Open the lid the rest of the way if it’s partly closed. A wide enough opening and it might jump out.
- Move the can somewhere quiet away from roads and noise so it feels safe enough to leave.
- Tap the outside with a broom handle to nudge it along. Don’t hit the raccoon.
- Set a thick branch inside that reaches from the bottom to above the rim.
- Put a step stool or sturdy box next to the can as a platform it can climb onto and out.
- Call a professional if it’s been trapped a long time, looks hurt, or you can’t free it safely.
After it’s out, back off and give it a clear path to the nearest trees or bushes. Don’t chase it. If it won’t leave, it may be hurt or exhausted, so call a rehabber.
Stop it from happening again
A locking lid is the real answer, raccoons are smart enough to pop a snap-on lid. Bungee cords or a weight work too. Store cans in a garage or shed overnight if you can, and rinse them out so food smells don’t draw raccoons in.
Frequently Asked Questions
If the can has ridges or texture inside, maybe. Smooth plastic with nothing to grip is a trap, and if it’s been in there a while it needs help.
A few days without food or water at best, and much less in direct sun, where heat stress sets in fast. Check cans before tossing anything if raccoons are around.
A scared raccoon will bite. Never reach in. Give it a ramp or rope and let it climb out on its own.
Wash it with a bleach solution, about one part bleach to nine parts water, to remove droppings and urine, then rinse well. Raccoon waste can carry parasites, so wear gloves.
