How to Set a Humane Animal Trap
There may be occasions when wild animals become a nuisance to human environments, but there is no desire to kill them. Instead, humane animal traps will allow you to capture these wild animals and release them back into their natural habitats. Humane traps can also be used to rescue an animal that may be hurt and may need veterinary care, or simply to nab your family pet that has a tendency to roam. Cats, dogs, rabbits, raccoons, skunks and squirrels are examples of animals that can be trapped safely and humanely. It is your responsibility to make sure the trap is set correctly and the animal remains safe throughout the trapping process. Setting a humane trap is simple, but does require adult supervision. Check with local laws that may prohibit trappings of certain animals. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- High quality metal trap made of galvanized steel to prevent rusting. There are hundreds of different traps on the market. Chose the "easy-set" types for simplest trapping. Easy-set traps can be used on any size animal. Test trap before first use. Chose extra-small, small, medium, large or extra-large trap based on the size animal to be captured. See Resources below for places to buy trap materials. Some local shelter may loan traps to the community.
- Species-specific bait. Different animals are lured by different types of bait. Be sure to use the one that attracts the animal you are trapping.
- Car to transport the trapped animal to the local animal shelter or veterinary clinic
- Cleaning supplies
- Heavy gloves
Instructions
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How to Set A Humane Trap
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1
Select the trap based on the animal you want to capture.
Components of a well made, easy set trap:
1. Carrying handle
2. Setting handle
3. Steele Cage
4. Door
5. Door lock
6. Trip plate -
2
Use carry handle to take trap to a location where animals have been seen. Place trap on a steady, level surface. The best time to set the trap is just before feeding time, usually at dusk.
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3
Lift setting handle to back of trap then set handle to lock door into position.
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4
Bait the trap. Put a small amount of food just outside the trap door to lure the animal. Put the rest of the bait in a small cardboard box, just beyond the tripping mechanism. Do not place bait in a metal container, since the sharp edges may hurt the animal.
1. Extra-small (mouse)
• Small nuts
• Oatmeal
• Gumdrops
2. Small (squirrels)
• Cereal
• Apple
• Popcorn
3. Medium (rabbit)
• Carrots
• Lettuce
• Apples
4. Large (possums)
• Fish
• Apples
• Canned pet food
5. Extra Large (raccoons)
• Crispy bacon
• Watermelon
• Fish -
5
Set the tripping mechanism and set the door to the trapping position. Always test the mechanism before setting the trap to make sure it works. Check the trap often to see if the animal has been captured.
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6
Take the trapped animal to the local animal shelter, wildlife organization, or veterinary clinic for evaluation and release.
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7
Clean and disinfect the cage for future use.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Plan ahead. If you don't have time to take the captured animal to a shelter or veterinary clinic soon after trapping, it's best to postpone setting the trap for another day.
Once the animal is captured, cover the trap with a towel or blanket before driving to the shelter to minimize the stress to the animal.
Wear heavy gloves to prevent injury from bites or claws.
Keep family pets and small children clear of the trap.
Be careful when approaching a captured animal. Animals can and will bite, claw and scratch when afraid.
Never leave traps unattended in an unprotected area.
