Chapter 8: Trapping and Furtaking Basics
Releasing Non-Target Species
If you catch a non-target animal in a trap, you should release
it quickly and without causing the animal harm. The steps
listed below provide a procedure to release non-target species.
Talk with experienced trappers to learn the best procedures
for different species.
- Use a catchpole to restrain the animal.
- Pin the animal's
head to the ground to restrain it.
- Cover the head to calm
the animal.
- Use a shield (plywood barrier or similar material).
- Open
the trap, and release the animal.
- Keep the barrier between
the animal and you.
Catchpole
Dispatching Trapped Animals
The most humane way of dispatching or killing
a trapped animal is to shoot it in the head with a small
caliber firearm, such
as a .22 caliber rimfire rifle, which will not damage the
animal's fur. Prior to shooting, remember the five
primary rules of firearm safety (S.M.A.R.T.).
At some
locations, traps can be set to drown the animal when caught.
An example of this type of setup is a snare
placed in the water. Finally, the least preferred way to
dispatch a trapped animal is by using blunt force to the
back of the animal's head.
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