How to Protect Wildgame Mirage 200lb from Raccoons
Raccoons are notorious for raiding deer feeders, costing hunters hundreds of dollars in wasted corn and damaged equipment. The Wildgame Innovations Mirage 200lb is a solid unit, but its plastic housing and exposed varmint guard can be vulnerable to persistent raccoons. This guide provides practical, field-tested methods to keep your Mirage 200lb secure, saving you money and frustration.
Why Do Raccoons Target the Wildgame Mirage 200lb Specifically?
Raccoons are drawn to the Mirage 200lb for two main reasons: the sound of the spinning plate and the smell of corn. The feeder’s spin-cast mechanism, while effective for deer, creates a distinct noise that raccoons associate with food. Additionally, the unit’s 200-pound capacity means a steady supply of corn, making it a prime target for nightly raids.
The plastic housing on the Mirage 200lb is lighter than metal units, which can work against you. Raccoons can sometimes pry open the lid or push the varmint guard aside if not properly secured. Understanding this behavior is the first step to effective protection.
To mitigate this, ensure the varmint guard is fully engaged and consider adding a secondary lock. The standard twist-lock lid is decent, but a padlock through the D-rings on the lid and barrel adds an extra layer of security.
What Physical Modifications Stop Raccoons from Reaching the Corn?
Install a Baffle or Cone
The most effective physical modification is adding a feeder baffle above the varmint guard. A 12-inch diameter metal cone, mounted directly above the spinner plate, prevents raccoons from clinging to the unit and reaching the corn stream. This works because raccoons have limited grip strength on smooth, angled surfaces.
Step-by-step installation:
- Remove the existing varnint guard by unscrewing the center bolt.
- Slide a 12-inch metal baffle cone (available at most farm stores for around $15–$20 USD) over the mounting rod.
- Reattach the varnint guard over the cone, ensuring it sits flush against the feeder base.
- Use stainless steel screws to secure the cone to the feeder base for added rigidity.
Reinforce the Varmint Guard
The Mirage 200lb’s stock varmint guard is plastic and can be bent or broken. Replace it with a steel aftermarket guard specifically designed for spin-cast feeders. Models from brands like “Moultrie” or “RanchRite” fit the 8-inch spinner plate diameter commonly used in the Mirage 200lb. Expect to pay about $25–$35 USD for a steel guard.
How to Secure the Feed Port and Spinner Plate
The spinner plate is the raccoon’s direct access point. Over-tightening the plate can damage the motor, but leaving it loose invites trouble. Use a lock washer or a nylon-insert lock nut on the spinner plate’s center bolt. This prevents the plate from being spun off by raccoons without requiring excessive torque.
For the feed port (the hole in the lid), install a small metal flap or “feed port door” that only opens when the motor runs. These are available as retrofit kits for about $10–$15 USD and screw directly onto the lid’s interior. This stops raccoons from reaching into the barrel through the tube.
Can Electronic Deterrents Work with the Mirage 200lb?
Yes, but with caveats. The Wildgame Innovations Mirage 200lb has a 6-volt battery compartment that can power low-wattage deterrents. A motion-activated sprinkler or a predator light (like a red LED) placed near the feeder can disrupt raccoons’ nocturnal habits without affecting deer activity. However, these need to be mounted separately; they will not fit inside the feeder.
| Deterrent Type | Effectiveness Level | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Motion-activated sprinkler | Usually not urgent (works 70% of time) | $30–$50 |
| Predator light (red LED) | Needs attention soon (may need repositioning) | $15–$25 |
| Ultrasonic repeller | Usually not urgent (may scare deer too) | $20–$40 |
Note: Ultrasonic repellers can startle deer, so avoid using them if your primary goal is deer feeding. Stick to visual or water-based deterrents.
What Maintenance Tips Prevent Raccoon Damage Long-Term?
Raccoons are adaptive. After a few nights of failed attempts, they may return weeks later. Establish a routine:
- Weekly inspection: Check for scratch marks, chewed wires, or loosened bolts. The Mirage 200lb’s plastic housing is tough but can develop hairline cracks over time.
- Lubricate moving parts: Use silicone spray on the spinner plate and motor shaft every month to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation, which reduces noise.
- Secure the battery: Raccoons sometimes chew through battery cables. Use spiral wrap or plastic conduit to protect the wiring. This also extends the life of the battery and solar panel connection.
- Clean up spilled corn: Rake or sweep away any corn that falls on the ground. This reduces the scent trail that initially attracted the raccoons.
Consider applying a taste deterrent like cayenne pepper mixed with mineral oil to the feeder’s legs and base. Deer don’t mind the occasional spicy bite, but raccoons find it unpleasant. Reapply after heavy rain.
What Owners Say About Raccoon Issues with the Mirage 200lb
Hunters across forums report mixed experiences. Most agree the stock varmint guard is inadequate for persistent raccoons. One owner noted: “I replaced the plastic guard with a steel one from another brand, and the problem disappeared. Cost me $30 and 10 minutes.” Another said: “The baffle trick works great, but you have to check it after every windstorm—it can shift.” A third owner observed: “I added a padlock to the lid and wired the spinner plate bolt. No issues since.” The consensus: proactive modifications pay off quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use PVC pipe to block the feed port?
Yes, a PVC collar around the feed tube can work, but it must be secured with screws to prevent raccoons from sliding it off. This is a low-cost solution, but it can also partially block the corn flow if not sized correctly.
Will a metal barrel replacement solve the problem?
Swapping the plastic barrel for a metal one (like a 55-gallon drum) can deter raccoons from chewing through the side, but the spinner plate remains vulnerable. It is a permanent solution for the barrel, but it is heavier and more expensive (around $80–$100 USD).
Does the Wildgame Innovations Mirage 200lb come with a raccoon-proof guarantee?
No, the manufacturer does not offer such a guarantee. The feeder is designed for deer feeding, not varmint resistance. Aftermarket modifications are necessary.
How often should I replace the varmint guard?
Inspect it every three months. Replace it if you see cracks, warping, or if raccoons have managed to bend it. Steel guards typically last two seasons before corrosion sets in.
Can I use a solar panel to power deterrents?
The Mirage 200lb’s solar panel is designed only for charging the internal battery. You cannot connect external deterrents to it without risking damage to the feeder’s control board. Use a separate solar setup for deterrents.
Will these modifications affect the feeder’s deer-attracting ability?
No, deer are creatures of habit and will continue using the feeder as long as corn is dispensed on schedule. The modifications are invisible to deer and only affect raccoons. For more tips on optimizing the feeder, see our guide on Programming Your Wildgame Mirage 200lb Feeder Timers.
