Effective baits include fruit, peanut butter, nuts and seeds. At the present time, there are no toxicants, fumigants or repellents registered for use against tree squirrels in Texas. Chances are, the raccoon is digging up the pansies or tulip bulbs in his search for grubworms or insects as a food source. Spraying the area with an insecticide will help alleviate the problem. You should always carefully read and follow insecticide label instructions.
Trapping is the most satisfactory way to remove raccoons.
In urban areas, it is advisable to use live traps because a dog or cat, if accidentally caught, can be released unharmed. A live trap with dimensions of at least 9 inches x 9 inches x 27 inches is adequate. Bait these traps with fruit, chicken parts, sardines or meat. When placing the traps outside, use fruit for bait as the likelihood of catching cats is reduced. Hawk or falcon silhouettes can be constructed from plywood, cardboard or construction paper, then painted black and hung from a tree limb near the damage site.