Two raccoons maimed by traps in Maple Ridge on New Year’s Eve had to be put down.
The Fur-Bearers wildlife protection group said young raccoons that were “languishing in cuff-style traps in a Maple Ridge yard” before they were humanely euthanized. The animals had been assessed by qualified wildlife rehabilitators, so the severity of their injuries could be determined.
A volunteer from the Langley-based Critter Care Wildlife Society attended the residential property to rescue and transport the raccoons to the organization’s centre around 5 p.m. on Dec. 31. A neighbour reported the raccoons had been in the traps since the previous morning. The raccoons were cold to the touch, and a clear loss of circulation was evident in their paws.
Further examination showed marked swelling, and that wrist bones had been completely separated from their forearms, said a press release from The Fur-Bearers.
The incident was reported to the BC Conservation Officer Service’s RAPP (Report All Polluters and Poachers) line.
“It’s unempathetic to leave any living creature trapped in a contraption like these for hours on end,” said Jenna Kuncewicz, senior wildlife supervisor at Critter Care. “The confinement of wildlife often results in self-mutilation, distress, and terror and often leads to unintended injuries or death.”
It is believed that the traps were set intentionally in the yard, and it is likely that the young raccoons would still be with their mother if they hadn’t encountered these traps, said the group.
The Fur-Bearers encourages anyone with information about this incident to contact the RAPP Line at 1-877-952-RAPP (7277) or report anonymously online at https://forms.gov.bc.ca/environment/rapp/.
The group advises using traps in managing issues with wildlife isn’t a long-term solution. Not only are they likely to cause distress and injury, traps can’t address root causes that contribute to issues.
For example, raccoons may dig up a lawn seeking grubs – removing the raccoon doesn’t resolve the issue. Treating the grubs in the yard organically or replacing lawn with native plants will resolve the issue – without affecting the raccoons. Using exclusion systems or working with an Animal Kind-certified wildlife removal professional can prevent problems around sheds, decks, and attics, again without negatively impacting local wildlife.
If any feeding of local wildlife is occurring (including bird feeders), this will attract raccoons and other animals until it ceases.
Cuff-style traps can be legally used in B.C. if regulations are followed, but their use is controversial due to the injuries they cause, and the chance they will trap unintended animals, or event pets.
Learn more about wildlife coexistence, non-lethal solutions, and find free resources at thefurbearers.com