How to Clean A Raccoon

Introduction

This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide on how to clean a raccoon for meat. While this process may seem daunting, following these instructions will help you handle it like a pro, ensuring that you safely remove the glands and prepare the meat for cooking.

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

• Gather necessary tools:
  • Sharp knife (a Havalon razor knife is recommended)
  • Cables for hanging the raccoon
  • Cutting board or clean surface
• Ensure your workspace is clean and well-lit to facilitate the process.

Step 2: Hang the Raccoon

• Since raccoons cannot be hung by their tendons like deer, use cables to secure each ankle.
• Find a suitable spot to hang the raccoon, ensuring it is stable.

Step 3: Make Initial Cuts

• Start by cutting around the hunches. Make cuts towards the center down both sides.
• Use the sharp knife to carefully peel the skin downwards.

Step 4: Remove the Glands

• Locate the glands, which are typically found in these areas:
  • Back of the hind legs (ham)
  • Neck area
  • Armpits
• Carefully pull out the glands using your fingers or the knife, ensuring none are left behind. Avoid contact with these glands as they can taint the meat.

Step 5: Cut Off the Front Feet

• Cut off the front feet by finding the joint at the wrist and slicing through.
• This will facilitate skinning the animal.

Step 6: Skin the Raccoon

• Continue to peel the skin downwards, pulling and cutting as necessary.
• Be cautious around sensitive areas to prevent puncturing any organs.

Step 7: Remove the Internal Organs

• Loosen the area around the anus and gently pull it out while cutting downwards.
• Cut through the ribs if necessary, using your knife to keep everything intact.

Step 8: Cut the Meat

• Start separating the meat:
  • Cut the front shoulders off.
  • Remove the back legs by locating the hip bone and cutting around it.
  • Ensure that all edible meat is separated from any residual fat or glands.
• You can also cut the back straps and tenderloins, ensuring to remove any fat that may hide glands.

Step 9: Clean and Prepare for Cooking

• Rinse the meat thoroughly to remove any remaining blood or debris.
• Prepare the meat as desired for cooking, whether it’s marinating or seasoning.

Conclusion

Cleaning a raccoon can be an efficient process when done methodically. Remember to focus on removing glands and ensuring cleanliness throughout. Once prepared, the meat can be seasoned and cooked to your preference. Happy cooking!