How To Set Live Trap • hornetsecurity.com

Trapping animals is a necessary task for many reasons, such as catching a feral cat or removing a nuisance animal from your property. However, it’s important to do so humanely and effectively and that’s where live traps come in. Live traps are a safe and humane way to capture animals without causing them harm. Additionally, it keeps them contained until you can release them in a more suitable location or take them to a wildlife rehabilitator.

Setting a live trap is relatively easy, but there are a few important factors to keep in mind to ensure a successful capture. First, choose the right trap for the animal you’re targeting. There are different sizes and types of live traps available, so be sure to select one that is appropriate for the size and species of animal you’re trying to catch. Once you have the right trap, place it in a location where the animal is likely to travel. This could be near a food source, water source, or den site. Next, bait the trap with something that the animal will find irresistible, such as food, water, or bedding. Finally, set the trap according to the manufacturer’s instructions and wait for the animal to enter.

Once the animal has been captured, it’s important to release it as soon as possible. If you’re releasing the animal on your property, choose a location that is far away from your home and any other structures. If you’re taking the animal to a wildlife rehabilitator, be sure to transport it in a secure container. Live traps are a valuable tool for humanely capturing animals, but it’s important to use them correctly to ensure a successful and safe capture.

Identifying the Target Animal

The first step in setting a live trap is to correctly identify the target animal. This is important for both the effectiveness of the trap and the well-being of the animal. Here are some key factors to consider when identifying the target animal:

Physical Characteristics:

Observe the animal’s physical characteristics, such as its size, shape, and color. Note any distinctive features, such as stripes, spots, or a bushy tail. This information will help you choose the appropriate trap size and design.

Habitat:

Consider where the animal is most commonly found. Determine its preferred habitat, such as wooded areas, grasslands, or near water sources. This will help you select the best location for the trap.

Feeding Habits:

Understand the animal’s feeding habits. Identify what type of bait is most likely to attract the animal. Live traps can be baited with a variety of foods, including fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds.

Activity Patterns:

Observe the animal’s activity patterns. Determine when it is most active, such as during the day or night. This information will help you decide the best time to set the trap.

Legal Considerations:

Always check local regulations regarding trapping animals. Some species may be protected or require specific permits. It is important to ensure that you are trapping the animal legally and ethically.

Selecting the Appropriate Trap

Choosing the right live trap is essential for successful animal capture. Consider the following factors:

Animal Size and Species

Select a trap that is large enough to accommodate the target animal without causing discomfort or injury. Different species have specific sizes and body shapes, so consider their measurements when choosing a trap.

Trap Type

There are various types of live traps, including box traps, cage traps, and snares. Each has its advantages and disadvantages:

– Box Traps: Enclosed on all sides, with a door that opens when triggered. Versatile and suitable for a wide range of animals.
– Cage Traps: Similar to box traps, but with wire mesh sides. Provide better ventilation and visibility for the animal.
– Snares: Noose-like devices that entangle the animal by the neck or limbs. Typically used for larger animals.

Bait

The choice of bait depends on the target animal’s diet. Common baits include:

Animal	Bait
Raccoons	Fruit, vegetables, canned fish
Squirrels	Nuts, seeds, peanut butter
Possums	Fruit, vegetables, pet food

Preparing the Trap

To ensure a successful live trapping experience, it’s crucial to prepare the trap meticulously before placing it in the desired location.

Securing the Trap

Before baiting the trap, ensure it is securely placed to prevent the animal from overturning it. Drive stakes or rebar into the ground at an angle, parallel to the trap’s entrance. Tie the trap to the stakes or rebar using sturdy wire or cable ties, creating a stable and escape-proof structure.

Baiting the Trap

The choice of bait depends on the target species. Here’s a table with suitable baits for common target animals:

Target Species	Suitable Baits
Raccoons	Sweet foods, such as fruit, marshmallows, or peanut butter
Opossums	Meat, fish, or canned pet food
Squirrels	Nuts, seeds, or fruit

Placing the Bait

Place the bait towards the back of the trap, ensuring the animal has to enter fully to retrieve it. Avoid placing the bait near the trap’s edges or triggers, as this may cause the animal to escape prematurely. Additionally, place some bedding materials, such as old rags or straw, inside the trap to provide a comfortable and secure space for the animal once caught.

Monitoring the Trap

1. Check Regularly:

Monitor the trap frequently, especially within the first few hours of setting it up. Animals tend to be cautious initially and may take time to approach or enter.

2. Observe from a Distance:

Avoid approaching the trap too closely. This can spook the animals and prevent them from entering. Observe the trap from a distance using binoculars or a camera.

3. Check for Triggers:

Ensure that the triggers are working properly. If an animal touches the trigger but the door does not close, adjust the sensitivity or location of the trigger.

4. Inspect the Surroundings:

Look for any obstructions or disturbances around the trap that may hinder animals from entering. Remove any obstacles or modify the trap’s position if necessary.

5. Avoid Strong Scents:

Strong scents can deter animals. Avoid using scented bait or handling the trap with heavily perfumed hands.

6. Consider a Motion-Activated Camera:

If feasible, install a motion-activated camera nearby to capture images or video of the activity around the trap. This provides a non-invasive way to monitor the trap remotely and observe the animals’ behavior without disturbing them.

Camera Type	Advantages	Disadvantages
Infrared Camera	– Discreet, no visible light emitted – Can operate in low-light conditions	– May be more expensive – Requires batteries or power source
Cell Phone Camera	– Convenient using trail camera apps – Can send notifications	– Limited battery life – Requires cellular coverage
Time-Lapse Camera	– Provides a sequence of images over time – Can identify movement patterns	– May miss sudden events – Requires memory card or cloud storage

Humanely Handling the Captured Animal

Once the animal is captured, it’s crucial to handle it humanely to minimize stress and injury. Follow these steps:

1. Approach Cautiously

Move slowly and calmly toward the trap. Avoid sudden movements or loud noises.

2. Cover the Trap

Drape a blanket or towel over the trap to create a dark, calming space for the animal.

3. Keep it Covered

Avoid opening the trap door if possible. If necessary, cover the animal’s eyes to reduce stress.

4. Touch Gently

If you must touch the animal, do so gently. Avoid holding it by the tail or pulling on the fur.

5. Release Safely

If relocating the animal, transport it in a secure container lined with soft material.

6. Keep Away from Pets

Keep pets away from the captured animal to prevent unnecessary stress or potential harm.

7. Seek Professional Help

If the animal appears injured or aggressive, seek professional assistance from a veterinarian or wildlife rehabilitator promptly. They can provide proper medical care and guidance on handling and release.

Additional Tips for Humane Handling:


Do not attempt to handle the animal alone if it is large or potentially dangerous.
Wear gloves to protect yourself from bites or scratches.
Keep the animal calm and quiet by speaking in a soft, soothing voice.

Releasing the Animal

Once the animal is captured, it’s crucial to release it humanely and safely. Follow these detailed steps:

1. Confirm the Animal’s Type and Condition: Before releasing the animal, identify the species and check for any injuries or distress. If necessary, consult a local wildlife rehabilitator or animal control officer.

2. Choose a Suitable Release Site: Select a location that provides appropriate habitat for the animal. Avoid releasing it near roads, populated areas, or potential hazards.

3. Prepare the Trap for Release: Open the trap and place it on a level surface. Keep the door closed and approach the animal calmly.

4. Cover the Trap: Use a towel or blanket to cover the trap. This will help calm the animal and reduce its stress.

5. Open the Trap Door Quietly: Slowly lift the covered trap and gently open the door without startling the animal.

6. Monitor the Animal: Observe the animal’s behavior as it exits the trap. Ensure it moves away safely and is not threatened.

7. Disinfect the Trap: After releasing the animal, thoroughly clean and disinfect the trap using a mild soap solution. This will prevent the spread of diseases.

8. Additional Release Considerations for Common Pest Animals:

Animal	Specific Release Considerations
Squirrels	Release in densely wooded areas with plenty of trees and food sources.
Raccoons	Release near water sources, such as streams or ponds, as they require regular access to water.
Skunks	Release at dusk or dawn, when they are most active, and allow them ample time to find shelter.

Avoiding Common Mistakes

1. Using Food as Bait

Avoid using food as bait, as this can attract other animals besides the target species and increase the likelihood of non-target captures.

2. Setting Traps in Wrong Locations

Choose areas where the target species is likely to frequent, such as near food sources or along trails.

3. Improper Trap Placement

Position traps correctly to ensure that the animal can enter and trigger the mechanism. Place traps parallel to walls or fences, with the door facing the direction of animal movement.

4. Overcrowding Traps

Limit the number of animals trapped in a single trap to prevent overcrowding and stress.

5. Using Incorrect Trap Size

Select traps of the appropriate size for the target species. Too small traps can injure animals, while too large traps can be ineffective.

6. Leaving Traps Unattended

Monitor traps frequently to ensure that animals are not trapped for extended periods. Check traps every 24 hours or less.

7. Handling Animals Improperly

Approach trapped animals with caution and use proper handling techniques to avoid injury to both the animal and yourself.

8. Not Cleaning Traps

Clean traps thoroughly after each use to prevent the spread of disease.

9. Ignoring Legal Requirements

Familiarize yourself with local regulations and obtain any necessary permits or licenses before setting live traps. Failure to do so could result in fines or legal consequences.

Common Mistake	Consequences
Using food as bait	Non-target captures, animal attraction
Setting traps in wrong locations	Ineffective trapping
Improper trap placement	Animal escape, ineffective trapping
Overcrowding traps	Animal stress, injury
Using incorrect trap size	Animal injury, ineffective trapping
Leaving traps unattended	Animal welfare concerns, mortality
Handling animals improperly	Animal injury, human injury
Not cleaning traps	Disease transmission
Ignoring legal requirements	Fines, legal consequences

Safety Precautions

To ensure your safety and the well-being of the trapped animal, it’s crucial to follow these precautions:

1. **Wear Protective Gear:** Wear gloves, long sleeves, and pants when handling traps and trapped animals. This will protect you from potential bites, scratches, or diseases.

2. **Inspect Traps Regularly:** Check traps frequently to ensure animals are not suffering from heat stress, dehydration, or injury. Release any trapped animals immediately if they exhibit distress.

3. **Use Bait Cautiously:** Avoid using food that may attract non-target animals, such as baiting for a rat trap in a home with pets. Use bait that is specific to the species you intend to trap.

4. **Secure Trap Doors:** Ensure trap doors are securely fastened to prevent animals from escaping or getting injured.

5. **Choose an Appropriate Location:** Set traps away from areas frequented by children and pets. Avoid placing traps near food or water sources.

6. **Inspect for Pregnant or Nursing Animals:** Do not trap pregnant or nursing animals. These animals require specialized care and may abandon their young if captured.

7. **Relocate Trapped Animals Promptly:** After capturing an animal, relocate it promptly to an appropriate release site. Avoid releasing animals in areas with known wildlife predators.

8. **Humane Treatment:** Treat trapped animals with respect and compassion. Provide food and water when appropriate, and handle them with care.

9. **Follow Local Regulations:** Familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations regarding trapping animals. Obtain any necessary permits or licenses.

10. **Consider Professional Assistance:** If you encounter a particularly aggressive or large animal, or if you are not comfortable trapping the animal yourself, do not hesitate to contact a professional wildlife removal service.

How to Set a Live Trap

Live traps are a humane way to capture animals without harming them. They can be used to trap a variety of animals, including cats, squirrels, raccoons, and opossums. Live traps are typically made of wire mesh and have a door that can be closed to trap the animal.

To set a live trap, place it in an area where you think the animal is likely to travel. You may want to bait the trap with food, such as fruit, vegetables, or meat. Once the animal enters the trap, the door will close behind it.

Once the animal is trapped, you can release it at a different location away from your home. Be sure to check the trap regularly to make sure that the animal is not injured.