How to Use Latex Pan Covers on Traps

Trap covers keep traps working in dirt when setting for fox

Land sets made for fur bearers, in particular for fox and coyote, are covered with sifted dirt to make them blend in. The problem is that dirt filters in under the trap pan and prevents it from springing. Also, dirt gets wet and will freeze down, creating a concrete-like cover over the trap. Trap covers can prevent these problems. Commercial latex trap covers come pre-cut for ready use. Use 7-by-7-inch for size 1-1/2 and 2 traps and 8-by-8-inch for size 3 and 4 traps.

Things You'll Need

• Steel traps
• Trowel
• Latex trap covers
• Dirt sifter

Instructions

1. Dig a hollow bed for the trap to lie in at the trap set. Make the hollow bed one inch wider all around than the set trap and deep enough so the top of the set trap is a half-inch below the level of the surrounding ground.

2. Place the trap in the hollow bed so it lies solid and does not rock. Lift the free jaw that is not held down by the trigger and slip the trap cover under the upright jaw so the side with the split goes toward the trigger.

3. Lay the cover over the trap pan and push the split around the trap part the trigger is attached to. Tuck each side of the cover under the jaw on each side of the trigger so it protrudes past the trap jaw.

4. Smooth the remainder of the cover over the pan and bring the end out to its full length. Bring the free jaw down over the trap cover and push the trap down so it locks the cover in place over the inside of the trap and under the jaws. Sift dirt over the covered trap.

5. Cover the entire trap with the latex cover. This is accomplished by laying the cover over the trap and tucking the edges completely around and under the trap. Sift dirt over the covered trap.

Tips & Warnings

• Lift the free jaw and leave it standing up and work under the free jaw and under the trigger jaw rather than over the jaws.

• A thin stick can be used to poke the latex cover under the trigger jaw.

• Latex is preferable to other covers such as waxed paper as latex holds its shape and is waterproof. It will not freeze down and can be reused after an animal is taken in the set.

• Keep the latex trap covers clean in a scent free plastic bag away from human and garage odors.

• With the over-the-pan-under-the jaws method of using the trap cover, do not work with your fingers inside the trap jaws. The trap can be set off by pulling the cover too tight over the pan and could catch your fingers.

References

• "Trapping North American Furbearers;" S. Stanley Hawbaker; 1969
• "Russ Carmen's Professional Fox Trapping Methods;" Russ Carmen, 1978