I trap animals for a living. I'm State certified as an Animal Damage Control Agent.
If trying to capture a wild animal like a raccoon,, and have any wandering dogs or cats around, DO NOT USE ANY MEAT BASED BAITS!!!!!!!! This includes fish baits.
Nothing worse than catching the neighbor's Fido or Fluffy in a trap. I could list so many reasons this is a bad idea.
As noted above,, sweet baits such as honey buns, PBJ, or such is an excellent choice, and in general,, allows Fido or Fluffy to ignore the bait. Although many pets do like peanut butter.
Grape jelly is superb,, but getting it in a usable bait form requires a little preparation. I usually mix it with bread to give me a paste to use. Marshmellows are also good, but dogs do seem to have an interest in them.
Dogproof traps are very effective,, but if you are in a place where you can't discharge a firearm, they can be a "challenge" to deal with the masked bandit. Unless you have a catch pole to control a coon. And even then,, it can provide a bit of excitement.
As for catching coyotes after a skunk has been caught,, that's a good trick often employed by pros. A coyote is a canine. Canines like to roll in or investigate really stinky stuff. It works as an attractant, AND a cover scent. Plus,, a coyote will actually eat a skunk.
Next,,, due to potential rabies issues,, it's often illegal to relocate raccoons,, or other species that can be rabies vectors. It can be a FELONY if you release any animal upon State or Federal property without the proper permits. DON"T DO IT!
Lastly,, many states have LAWS about trapping out of season. Even if an animal is causing damage. Check your State laws PRIOR to trapping any wildlife. Make sure you follow the law,, or the cost of replacing the chickens will be CHEAP when compared to the game violation ticket.
